We have used multiple types of point of care testing – the logistics of administration are somewhat complex, and the MRO participation must be very active.  The biggest problem however is the total number of false positives, and cross reactivities that were observed in the different types of testing, including heavy smoking, cholesterol lowering medications, anti-depressants,etc.  The total number of individuals who were literally traumatized by the issue of the POC positive, which was subsequently found to be negative – it was abandoned.  WE do some 15,000 tests a year, so we do a lot of tests – and the number of true positive tests in the confirmatory process was 1 out of hundreds of false positives.  

 

__________

ShaRonne Hanson

Manager Fleet Crew Medical Services

Holland America Line and Seabourn
PHONE: 206-286-3932

FAX:       206-301-5551
EMAIL:shanson@HollandAmerica.com     www.hollandamerica.com

EMAIL: shanson@seabourn.com   www.Seabourn.com

 

 

 

From: MCOH-EH [mailto:mcoh-eh-bounces@mylist.net] On Behalf Of Marenick,Cheryl
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2015 5:29 AM
To: 'MCOH/EH'
Subject: Re: [MCOH-EH] Urine drug testing

 

Same topic

 

From: MCOH-EH [mailto:mcoh-eh-bounces+cmarenick=uchc.edu@mylist.net] On Behalf Of Angelique Ramirez
Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2015 3:23 PM
To: mcoh-eh@mylist.net
Subject: [MCOH-EH] Urine drug testing

 

 

We currently use rapid urine drug testing screen for pre-placement with confirmatory send out testing on the non-negatives.  We’ve been asked to implement a similar process for drug testing done for probable cause testing (reasonable suspicion).  Those tested for probable cause are sent home on an administrative suspension pending results – the desire is to clear them same day to minimize disruption to staffing.  Of note, our police department has been recommending testing as part of investigation of narcotic discrepancies which is the majority of our probable cause cases. Occupational Health does them during the day and we have a contract with a vendor for after hour testing – our current vendor does not offer point of care testing only collection and send out. 

 

Does anyone else use point of care testing for probable cause or drug diversion investigation testing?  Any concerns for consideration - I’m aware of lack of a rapid test for Fentanyl – any other concerns?

 

Thanks!

 

 

Angelique Ramirez, MD

Medical Director

Parkland Occupational Health Services

Office of Talent Management

214-590-4842 - office

angelique.ramirez@phhs.org

 

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