What is the recommended action if a laboratory result is deemed invalid?

When a laboratory result is deemed invalid, the appropriate action is to collect a new specimen for re-testing. This procedure ensures that accurate and reliable results are obtained for the drug test. An invalid result indicates that there may have been issues with the initial specimen, such as tampering, insufficient volume, or testing limitations, which could compromise the integrity of the findings.

Collecting a new specimen allows the testing process to be conducted again under proper conditions, increasing the likelihood of obtaining a valid and interpretable result. This step is crucial for maintaining the accuracy and credibility of the testing process, especially in regulatory or employment contexts where drug testing is involved.

Other options do not align with standard protocols; retaining the same specimen may not resolve the issues leading to the invalidity, while immediate disposal of the specimen eliminates any possibility of future testing. Notifying the donor may be part of the procedure, but it does not directly address the need to secure a valid result through re-testing.