Cozart® RapiScan
Q: Why do you need a reader?
A: A reader is needed because it removes the subjectivity often associated with other, visually interpreted, On-Site tests. A positive result is not always indicated by the complete absence of a test line.
The reader also provides a digital display of the results, which can also be printed out for a permanent record.
Q: What are the windows of detection for each drug?
A: The detection time of drugs in oral fluid is a complex area.
It should be noted that the detection window will vary with the quantity of drug taken, the frequency with which it is taken, when it was taken and the metabolism of the individual. Regular, high doses of drug can take several days to completely clear from the oral fluid whilst smaller, one-off doses might only be detectable for several hours.
Q: Do any foods or drinks cause interference?
A: To date we have not found any foods or drinks that interfere with the test however, we recommend that a 10 minute interval is left between any consumption of either, before testing.
Q: Will the results stand up in court?
A: As with any On-Site and laboratory immunoassay screening tests, the results are not evidential. A confirmation test such as GC/MS should be performed in this situation.
Q: Can it differentiate between heroin and codeine?
A: As with other On-Site and laboratory immunoassay screening tests, the screen is designed to detect all opiates and will give positive results for many of the opiate family. A confirmation test will allow the differentiation between heroin and OTC (over the counter) medicines.
Q: Does it measure methadone or its metabolites?
A: Mainly methadone, however it will pick up large concentrations of the metabolite.
Q: Is it OK to give a client a sweet to stimulate saliva?
A: Sweets and gum should not be used to stimulate salivation. As with all food and drink, 10 minutes should be left before collecting a sample. A useful alternative are Saliva Stimulation Tablets (SST) tablets available from chemists.
Q: Is it OK to give the client a drink of water if they have a dry mouth?
A: Yes, but ensure that all the water has been swallowed 10 minutes before testing commences.
Q: Why can't you just spit into a tube?
A: A known volume of oral fluid (saliva) must be collected, hence the need for the collection pad.
Q: Can the test be adulterated?
A: No as the non-invasive nature of the test allows the mouth cavity to be checked before the sample is collected. Substances that are used to interfere with testing cannot be held in the mouth. It is virtually impossible to conceal fluid in the mouth for 10 minutes without swallowing or dribbling. The use of oral fluid (saliva) removes the inconveniences and adulteration issues associated with urine testing.
Q: Can it detect crack cocaine?
A: Yes. Crack cocaine is readily detected.
Q: At what temperature do you store the test and kits?
A: Room temperature 15°C -25°C.
Q: How long does the Cozart® RapiScan charge last?
A: The internal battery of the RapiScan will last for 30 tests on average, although this is dependent on the cartridges that you are using and the number of printouts. It will take 75 minutes to fully recharge the batteries when connected to the fast charger.
Q: What is the maximum time limit allowed between adding the fluid to the cartridge inserting the cartridge into the reader?
A: The cartridge should be inserted into the reader as soon as the reagents (red colouring) appears in the cartridge window. This should take approximately 30 seconds from adding the sample.
Q: Do you have to calibrate the Cozart® RapiScan?
A: The Cozart® RapiScan is fully operational on delivery and does not need to be calibrated. The Quality Control procedure is fully described in the manual that accompanies the Cozart® RapiScan instrument.