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Test Considerations
Î In a prenatal care setting, routine Screening and Brief Intervention
(SBI) for alcohol use should be conducted. Laboratory testing for
alcohol use is not recommended except in cases of suspected or
known risk factors for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).
Î As pregnant women who use substances are less willing to disclose
use of opioids and benzodiazepines than other substances, testing for
opioids and benzodiazepines helps identify an often underreported
behavior.
Î Urine is an appropriate matrix for drug testing women who are
pregnant.
Test Results
Î As a follow up to a presumptive positive test result, providers should
use definitive tests to clearly identify individual drugs.
Î Responses to positive drug test results can include: patient education,
referral to treatment, and the creation of a treatment plan.
Î Providers should be familiar with local treatment resources and
programs for pregnant women.
People in Recovery
Î It is appropriate to conduct drug testing for a minimum of five years in
healthcare settings for most patients in stable recovery. The frequency
of drug testing for patients in stable recovery should depend on the
severity and chronicity of the patient's addiction.
Î It is appropriate for patients in stable recovery to receive periodic
Recovery Management Checkups that include a drug testing
component.
Î Immediate evaluation for treatment or treatment intensification as a
response to a positive drug test result is appropriate for most patients
in stable recovery.
Health and Other Professionals
Î Drug testing is especially useful in supporting recovery of individuals
who have increased access to psychoactive substances, including
healthcare professionals and professionals in safety sensitive
positions. Additional testing should be considered for those in
recovery who have significant occupational exposure to addictive
substances.
Part 6: Special Populations
