The Psychiatrist (2009) 33: 343-346. doi: 10.1192/pb.bp.108.021378
© 2009 The Royal College of Psychiatrists
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On-site testing for drugs of misuse in the acute psychiatric ward

Sharif Ghali, Specialist Registrar

Lambeth Early Onset (LEO) Services, South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, email: sharifghali{at}doctors.org.uk

Declaration of interest

None.

AIMS AND METHOD

To explore why and how on-site urine drug testing is performed in in-patient settings. Data were collected by questionnaire in four acute psychiatric wards.

RESULTS

The most commonly cited reasons for testing were suspected drug use and as a routine part of the admission procedure. On-site testing was typically favoured over laboratory methods owing to the rapid turnaround of results and ease of use. In 81% of cases the result of the tests had no effect on immediate management. The majority of staff had not received formal training in their use.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Clinical use of on-site drug tests does not reflect their established limitations. Guidance is required to direct staff in the use of this commonly used assessment tool.




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