Toxicology Tests

Drug Screening Test

Why It Is Done

A toxicology test ("tox screen") can be done to:

• Help find the cause of life-threatening symptoms, unconsciousness, or bizarre behavior in an emergency situation. It is usually done within 96 hours (4 days) after a drug may have been taken. The toxicology test is used to find out if symptoms may be caused by a drug overdose. Both a urine sample and a blood sample may be tested.
• Test for drug use in the workplace, especially for people who are involved with public safety, such as bus drivers or child care workers. A toxicology test may also be a normal part of the application procedure for some jobs. This may be done on either a blood or urine sample.
• Test athletes for the use of drugs that enhance their athletic ability. This is usually done on a urine sample.
• Evaluate the possible use of date rape drugs. This is usually done on a urine sample.

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Author:	Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: June 23, 2006
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine R. Steven Tharratt, MD, MPVM, FACP, FCCP - Pulmonology, Critical Care, Medical Toxicology
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