drug screens on admission???

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Hey everyone - I was wondering if any of you are dealing with routine drug screens on admission for labor? As with most places we are seeing an increase in drug abuse - especially Meth - and our OB committee is kicking around the idea of drug screens on admission. Want to know what people think about this. They (our OB's) plan to do one with the patient's routine first labs & then tell them to expect one when they present in labor. That way there is time for counselling/treatment prior to delivery. I do know that if a mother tests positive for Meth in WV it is an automatic removal of Newborn until mother completes treatment. Your input is appreciated. Thanks & have a GREAT day!!

What gets me is the ones that come in and have a positive screen for cocaine, meth and marj. and the next day they send the baby home with them. Why run a drug screen if you're not going to do anything about it.

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.
What gets me is the ones that come in and have a positive screen for cocaine, meth and marj. and the next day they send the baby home with them. Why run a drug screen if you're not going to do anything about it.

Well therein lies the crux of the matter. WHAT is society prepared to DO about it? It varies a LOT by state, I have learned. Where I am, the baby would be screened for drugs and if positive, would not go home w/mom, til she was proven clean in a state-run program.

NO easy answers exist. Only more complex problems.

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Hello - Can you tell me when your unit does a urine drug screen on someone, do they need to follow the chain of command? I was told a urine needs to be walked to the lab and anyone that handles it needs to sign. Thanks

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