From: SM Skolly, DABAT
Date: 03 Feb 2005
Time: 09:10:06 -0800
Remote Name: 69.163.131.17
I am working on a patient file and have noted some inconsistent lab results. A hospital emergency department's quick screen (urine-- unknown methodology) showed positive results for THC and benzodiazepines. The sample was sent to Quest for an additional screen and GC-MS confirmation. The screen showed negative results, so the GC-MS was felt to be unnecessary. This is a long-winded request for information regarding about the probability of receiving a false positive screen in this type of situation. How common or uncommon is this scenario? Are some detection tests better than others. Can operator interpretation be a factor that can result in an error? Many questions -- your help is greatly appreciated! References are appreciated, too!