random drug tests?

mamason · Jul 17, 2008

My hospital can do random drug tests. It's agreed upon hire. I was tested prior to working. This is not a big deal to meal. If they feel they need to test me for whatever reason, then, I'm ok with that. I have nothing to hide. Now, if it turns out to be an ongoing thing, then, I would question as to why I was being targeted. SO, it hasn't happened as of yet. But, I would gladly give a sample if asked.

mamason · Jul 17, 2008

I'm still trying to figure out why the OP seems so worried about this.

I have a friend who works outside of the medical field. She was randomly tested on 3 occasions within a 2 month period. Of course she was negative. But, upon the last testing, she stated that if they called her in one more time, she'll be bringing an attorney with her. I can see her point. It was almost as if it were harrassment. She may have a few beers now and then, but, totally drug free.

HisTreasure, BSN, RN · Jul 18, 2008

They aren't a scare tactic. They happen. Some places they happen often. I think they are awesome. I've known hospital staff that deal with patient care who will openly admit that they indulge. To me that is neglectful and irresponsible. I don't want that person working alongside me.

becembrie · Jul 18, 2008

I would assume that if you are required to submit to random drug testing you would need to sign a form a the time of hire acknowledging your understanding of the policy. I was the drug supervisor for our family business and our drivers were required to be on a random drug test program. I personally didn't have any say when someone got called to test. I would get a form in the mail that required me to send that particular driver to the testing site promptly.

I would think that any random drug testing policy would be just that, RANDOM. If someone keeps getting called up, I would request a copy of the written policy and find out how it is administered. Random drug tests should include all employees in the pool.

PageRespiratory! · Jul 18, 2008

Wow, lots of high horses riding around this thread!

Jo Dirt · Jul 18, 2008

I don't smoke pot or use street drugs BUT by the same token, if a person chooses to smoke it on their own UNPAID time I can't for the life of me see how this is the Company's business!!!

Why do these companies have the right to own you?

I don't want a pothead taking care of me, but I do not consider an occasional joint as making someone a pothead, either, yet I hear this stays in your system a very long time.

ilstu99 · Jul 18, 2008

I don't smoke pot or use street drugs BUT by the same token, if a person chooses to smoke it on their own UNPAID time I can't for the life of me see how this is the Company's business!!!
Why do these companies have the right to own you?
I don't want a pothead taking care of me, but I do not consider an occasional joint as making someone a pothead, either, yet I hear this stays in your system a very long time.

I would guess because nursing relies quite a lot on honesty, integrity and accountability. While smoking a joint every now and then really isn't a huge deal (in my opinion), it IS against the law, and tends to reflect a perceived "flaw" in that someone would be willing to break the law when it suits their personal need/want.

Personally? It's something companies do to make themselves feel better. I think drug tests should be reserved for employees that exhibit poor behaviors in the workplace. I'm far more worried about the coworkers who pass me on the Interstate like I'm sitting still, while they're talking on their cell phones and putting on make-up. That scares me far more than someone smoking a joint on their vacation....but that's just me.

aloevera · Jul 18, 2008

we only "random test" at my facility if someone is impaired or after an injury.........I personally agree that whatever someone does on their own time is none of their employers business but I guess they have to draw the line somewhere....I really don't think most places do the random test unless reasonable actions warrant it....I could be wrong but this is what I have seen in the past 24 yrs.

Jo Dirt · Jul 18, 2008

I don't smoke pot or use street drugs BUT by the same token, if a person chooses to smoke it on their own UNPAID time I can't for the life of me see how this is the Company's business!!!
Why do these companies have the right to own you?
I don't want a pothead taking care of me, but I do not consider an occasional joint as making someone a pothead, either, yet I hear this stays in your system a very long time.

I think they should adopt more reliable policies for judging a person's integrity, because there are people I'm sure who are cleaner than a whistle you wouldn't want anywhere around you.

pattycakeRN · Jul 18, 2008

I would guess because nursing relies quite a lot on honesty, integrity and accountability. While smoking a joint every now and then really isn't a huge deal (in my opinion), it IS against the law, and tends to reflect a perceived "flaw" in that someone would be willing to break the law when it suits their personal need/want.

I drive fast- sometimes reeeaaallly fast.

Speeding is illegal, and I am willing to break the law when it suits my personal needs in regard to the speed limit. Should I then be suspended from work when I get a speeding ticket, simply because I have that disregard for authority?

(ilstu99- I'm not jumping on you, just making a point- I think a lot of people feel the same way as what you posted.)

Basically, who really cares what people do on their days off? Although, I suppose you don't know based on a drug test whether they are high right now while participating in patient care. The same goes for alcohol- some alcoholics could be drunk and you wouldn't even know.

I don't have a good answer... :confused:

aloevera · Jul 18, 2008

Slow Down !!! Before You Get Hurt Or Hurt Someone Else !!!

leslie :-D · Jul 18, 2008

we have randoms where i work.

in 11 yrs, i've been tested a few times.

doesn't bother me, as long as everyone else is getting tested as well.

leslie