How often do hospitals drug test?
Generally speaking, most hospitals require a clean drug test before employment. After that initial screening, the frequency of drug testing employees varies practice to practice. Since sobriety is essential to job function in hospitals, you can expect a drug test to come up after securing employment.
As a condition of hire, the most commonly used drug test is a 5 panel test employers use to pass potential workers through the pre-employment stage. This 5 panel drug test includes:
-Amphetamines
-Cocaine
-Opiates
-Phencyclidine
-THC
While it depends on your state and facility for frequency, every hospital has the right to random drug test. Researchers have found that 1 in 10 practitioners will fall into substance abuse at some point in their career. This makes random drug testing important for the safety of staff and patients.
You may also get drug tested when an employer finds there is reasonable suspicion to test. This usually comes up when drugs are missing , an employee seems under the influence, or after a workplace accident. Each employer has their own drug testing policy so it’s important to check with HR if you have any questions.
It’s important to note: even if you live in a state with legalized marijuana, marijuana is a schedule 1 drug and illegal federally. Any positive drug test in a hospital can result in a board investigation and potential loss of license.
Don’t forget: Check your state specific laws and your employers drug testing policy on drug testing to get a more accurate answer.
