drug test question

Psqrd · Nov 30, 2007

I would not worry about it...even if you did come up hot for the drug they (testing lab) would call you and verify if you under a Doctor's care for it.

P2

al7139, ASN, RN · Nov 30, 2007

Hi,

As far as I can tell, Ultram, while having the potential for abuse/addiction, is not yet on the DEA list of controlled substances. This may change in the future.

Even so, while I do not know whether it would show up on a drug screen, as a nurse, as long as you have a legitimate prescription for a medical condition, that can be confirmed by your doctor, then it won't be an issue. There are plenty of nurses that take medications for various medical conditions that will test positive on a drug test. You just need to be up front with what medications you are currently taking, and be ready to provide proof of the medical condition, and the prescription verification. You should speak to your doctor and get the info you need ahead of time, and give your permission to release information relating to your medical condition to the hospital you are interviewing at so they can verify.

Don't worry, if your rx is legal, it won't be an issue.

Amy

RNmom08 · Nov 30, 2007

aaahhhh you see, I've been out of the work force for about 11 yrs or so and I've never had to even do a drug test before so I don't know how all of this works. I got married and had our 5 children, then went to school and am now looking for a job so I know nothing abou the drug tests. Sort of naive, I know. Thanks for the answers. Got to go , have a 3 yr old with an earache and he can't sleep.....

Thank you everyone!

sharlynn · Nov 30, 2007

I always fail drug tests because I take Phenobarb for seizures. I warn the employer before the test and bring a copy of a letter from my neurosurgeon to go with my records. I've never had a problem.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Nov 30, 2007

You just disclose it at the time of the test. I take tranquilizers and an antidepressant by prescription. It has never been an issue.

If you want to make yourself more comfortable bring the vials with you so the presciption can be proven.

JessicRN · Nov 30, 2007

Hi there. I am wondering if any of you know if tramadol (Ultram) which is and opiate-like drug will show up on an employment drug screening test as a positive for opiates. I have been taking tramadol on and off when I feel I have a migraine beginning which has been a couple times this last week. It works well for me for this which is a relief because the other drugs marketed for migraines have not worked. I'm graduating in Dec. and have been on interviews but I don't want to worry about a silly drug test coming negative from my prescription tramadol. And I really don't want to subject myself to a migraine needlessly if I have another one come on by not taking my tramadol to get rid of it. Ya know what I mean?
Any info would be wonderful. Thanks to all!

Before you take the test you usually write down all drugs you take PRN or regularly. If you test positive and it is prescibed you are in the clear but you will have to prove it.

TazziRN, RN · Nov 30, 2007

Yes, it will show up on a screen and no, it will not a be a problem as long as you have a legitimate script, as the others have already said.

It bothers me a little that you consider the drug test "silly", however. Drug use is a rampant problem in all professions, and for that reason almost all employers, if not ALL, require screening now. Wihle most places will only run another one if there is suspicion of use, they all reserve the right to request random screens for any reason. Granted, it's easy to pass a pre-employment screen since we all know it's coming up, but the idea is good. Think about it from the patient's point of view: would you want someone caring for you or yours who uses drugs illicitly?

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Nov 30, 2007

Since healthcare workers have access to a wide range of medications at the workplace (Soma, Darvocet, Fentanyl, Methadone, Lyrica), thry tend to receive a more inclusive drug screen than the rest of the general public. Therefore, the tramadol (Ultram) will likely show up on any healthcare-related drug screen you ever take. However, the other members are correct in stating that a valid prescription for Ultram should keep your name clear.

Lay people who are not involved with healthcare or nursing usually receive the very simple "NIDA-5" drug screen that tests for the big 5: cannabinoids, cocaine, amphetamines, opiates, and PCP.

RNmom08 · Nov 30, 2007

Yes, it will show up on a screen and no, it will not a be a problem as long as you have a legitimate script, as the others have already said.
It bothers me a little that you consider the drug test "silly", however. Drug use is a rampant problem in all professions, and for that reason almost all employers, if not ALL, require screening now. Wihle most places will only run another one if there is suspicion of use, they all reserve the right to request random screens for any reason. Granted, it's easy to pass a pre-employment screen since we all know it's coming up, but the idea is good. Think about it from the patient's point of view: would you want someone caring for you or yours who uses drugs illicitly?

Pardon me... I didn't mean to bother anyone by stating that and I never should have stated it that way. I think they are very very important. I should have said my silly migraines not silly drug test. I hope you and other who may have been offended can forgive me. By no means do I condone or any way support the illegal use of drugs or even condone the abuse of legally obtained drugs. It bothers me that I even have to take Ultram. Again please accept my apologies for misstating about the "silly" drug test.

Dear Lord ~~ I will never be a politician - I would be ripped apart for things I misstate.....