Definition - What does Specimen Validity Testing mean?
Specimen validity testing (SVT) is a criterion used to assess a urine specimen with any changes in its chemical levels that point to a class(s) of drug metabolite(s) found in the system. Since urine is a water-soluble mixture, the SVT findings confirm normal urine against the index. Factors such as color, density, and texture of urine can lend proof to justify an SVT from a donor in question.SureHire explains Specimen Validity Testing
Though urine specimens often provide a quick turnaround on test results, their mass-to-volume ratio can fluctuate when a person ingests drugs into their system to tip the balance. For this reason, specimen validity testing is a method used to ensure that test results are consistent with alleged cases of drug use. Periodic SVT testing can help chart patterns between visits to explain away a potential relapse since the initial urine drug screen.
A tester may use a diagram that compares the range of pH levels, creatinine, and specific gravity values based on the cumulative buildup of enzymes voided from the urine. Since many donors will adulterate or dilute a urine sample, SVT testing grades the low/high acidity count to dismiss any margins of error. This approach can help clear any false negatives from the fold in the workplace.
