Hello all. I've been an RN for 12 years, unblemished record, stellar recommendations, and most of my experience is in critical care. I started working for a large urban health system 3 months ago. I inadvertently took home a partial vial of Fentanyl from my ED shift that I should have wasted but forgot. The next morning I brought the vial back, notified the ER Charge, the House Supe, and my Supervisor. Per the direction of the House Supe, I took the vial to pharmacy for recording and immediately reported to Employee Health for a UDS. That all seemed reasonable and expected to me. Two days later I got a call from Employee Health telling me that the MRO requested an "immediate observed urine drug screen". She didn't know the reason. I assumed that meant the EH RN would watch me pee. However, what that required was me pulling my pants and underwear down to my knees, pulling up my top, and turning a full circle in front of the employee health nurse. Then she watched me pee. Needless to say, I was humiliated. I sent a written complaint to my supervisor, who forwarded it to our Director, who wrote back that she was appalled that this happened. I'm not sure what I'm going to do, but I'm wondering if anyone has experienced or heard of this kind of invasive UDS? Thanks!
I remember going into Naval boot camp, not only did they have to watch you pee but you had to sit there, leaned back, legs spread so they could see where your urine was coming from. Invasive? Yep. But... whatever. Its a few minutes out of your life and gods knows theyve seen worse.
I have given my share of observed UDS's and never had to do the moving clothing & turn thing. An observed urine test is bad enough, but unfortunately necessary in many situations. I once had a girl bend down and practically push my knees apart, trying to make sure she saw the urine coming from me; that's prolly my worst. I'm sure the person observing wasn't enjoying your humiliation and was pretty flustered as well; Just one of those things...
It never ceases to amaze me what lengths folks will go to, to pass off someone else urine as their own (and I've done many stupid things, so not trying to judge). Maybe I simply lack the coordination or creativity, but sitting on the commode, placing cup appropriately and getting enough urine in the cup is just about all I can manage. Those who try to give others' urine as their own simply MUST have more than 10 fingers, or a 3rd hand.
I'm sure OP, you won't make the same mistake again after this experience. And kudos to your employer, trying to catch any diversion activities, as many facilities simply terminate and don't report, brushing any suspicion under the rug. At least there is a positive side to it.
ponymom
385 Posts
I have never had an observed uds in any healthcare job I have ever held, but I have had two observed uds in two different manufacturing jobs.