Getting Started

We highly recommend that you watch the "Quick Start" episode of your program's video training before diving into individual requirements. Most clinical and field programs at UConn require students to complete a Drug Screen at some stage of the program, most on an annual basis. In addition to the information on this page, please also consult your program's timeline, requirements list, and the companion video episode that walks you through the ordering process for your screening items. Please do not order any screening items until you are instructed to do so. You will not be able to begin your placement if compliance requirements are not met, and you will be removed from your placement if compliance lapses.

Drug Screen Episode

Summary below in case you just need a quick reference. Also see your program's PDF compliance guide and the companion episode about your program's specific screening items/timeline for ordering.

Drug Screen Basics

1. Remember that this page and the video above only provide you with general information about the drug screen process. Please consult the program-specific episode in your program's playlist for step-by-step order instructions. Do not order any screening items until you are instructed to do so. If you order before instructed, you will have to pay for your screenings again at your own expense.
2. Most programs require a 12-panel drug screen ($59.00), but consult your program-specific instructions to verify what is required for your program. You will order your drug screen in Complio and select a Quest/LabCorp location during the order process.
3. Reach out to your selected lab site directly to make an appointment, confirm hours, etc.
4. Bring your registration/order form with you to the lab when you go to complete your urine sample (you'll receive it by email and can also access it on the "Background Screening" tab of your Complio home screen). Ensure you complete your drug screen before your program's deadline.
5. Ensure that the name on your drug screen order matches your government-issue photo ID.
6. Once your drug screen is complete, the result will port automatically into your compliance profile.
7. In general, tested substances include amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, methadone, methaqualone, opiates, oxycodone, phencyclidine, and propoxyphene.

Flags

• A “flag” on a drug screen alerts you to a problem. For drug screens, the flag can indicate the presence of a tested substance or an issue within the screening process or the urine sample (e.g., negative dilute or inadequate sample). See how to avoid flags below.
• If you have a concern about a potential flag that may appear on your drug screen, please reach out to clinicalcasemanager@uconn.edu before you place your order. The Clinical Case Manager will provide you with confidential guidance about how to proceed.
• As the student, you have an affirmative responsibility to monitor the results of your drug screen and take necessary steps following any flags, including reaching out to clinicalcasemanager@uconn.edu.
• If you have a flag on your completed drug screen, you must reach out to clinicalcasemanager@uconn.edu right away to begin the resolution process.
• If your drug screen is flagged as a negative dilute:
  • A negative dilute most often indicates overhydration, likely resulting from your desire to easily produce the required urine sample. Please make sure not to overhydrate prior to your drug screen as a diluted sample will result in a flagged order.
  • Under UConn policy, if your drug screen is flagged as a negative dilute, you must immediately complete a second drug screen. Students who are required to immediately complete a second drug screen must purchase a new drug screen in ADB/Complio and complete the second drug screening at your selected site within three days not counting weekends or state holidays. It is imperative for you to reach out to clinicalcasemanager@uconn.edu as soon as possible if you need to complete a second drug screen. If you are notified of the first test’s flag before noon, that day counts as day one of the three-day re-test window.
  • You're allowed two attempts to pass the drug screen. For example, if your first test is flagged as a negative dilute and your second test is flagged as an inadequate sample, you will be deemed to have failed your required drug screen and the result will be disclosed to your program. You will not be able to proceed with placement.

Avoiding Flags

• Discuss any prescription medications with the Clinical Case Manager prior to your drug screen.
• Do not use illegal drugs.
  • A note about marijuana: This is an official notice that although the recreational use of marijuana is now legal in Connecticut and other states, UConn is required to continue testing for the presence of marijuana and to share drug test results that are positive for marijuana with placement agencies. There has been no indication that agencies will be revising their drug testing requirements. As such, it is most likely that agencies will deem drug test results that are positive for marijuana (including marijuana used for medical purposes with a valid prescription) as failing to meet their drug testing requirements. UConn Programs are not responsible for arranging placements for students who are unable to meet an agency’s requirements. Additionally, even if such an agencycan be identified, there is no guarantee that a student who has tested positive for marijuana can be placed at that specific agency. Students who do have a prescription for medical use of marijuana are strongly encouraged to inform the clinical case manager in advance of the drug screen. Please also be aware that, under some contracts between UConn and agencies, the agency can require random drug screens of students placed at the agency at any time without giving notice to UConn or to the student. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to clinicalcasemanager@uconn.edu.
• Don't overhydrate prior to your drug screen. ADB's recommendation during the order process is to not drink more than 8 oz of water in the two-hour period leading up to your drug screen. A diluted sample counts as a flag and you will have to purchase a new drug screen at your own expense.
• Some foods and medications (including but not limited to poppy seeds and antibiotics) can cause false positives. Additionally, in some instances menstruation can also affect the outcome of a drug screen. Please plan accordingly.