Random Drug Testing Essay

Random drug testing is an issue that remains with the largely employer. Some states are removing the dilemma for the HCO to decide which path to take, New Hampshire now regulates that all healthcare workers who have a reasonable suspicion of drug abuse must undergo drug testing (Barajas. 2014). . However, most employers have to weigh the positives and negatives on both sides of the issue. This can get particularly difficult in the healthcare setting due to the high stakes of the job and risks to patient safety. To begin talking about whether random drug testing should or should not be done, it is best to first find out if it is legal. According to the EEOC, drug testing and continued drug testing at pre-employment and after employment is permissible.

Fitzsimons, Baker, Lowenstein, and Zapol (2008) bring up the biggest pro in my opinion, they discovered that having regular random drug tests performed reduces the incidence of abuse and addiction of drugs. In healthcare, where over 80% of resident programs have one or more substance abusers (Fitzsimons, Baker, Lowenstein, and Zapol; 2008), this is a major pro. Fitzsimons, Baker, Lowenstein, and Zapol cite additional sources in their article as to why substance abuse in healthcare is so common, they say that the more you are around drugs, with easy access to pain medications, the bigger the risk (2008). Random drug testing also reduces the amount of liability and workplace violence claims as well (Rothman, 1988). One pro that DuPont Et Al. (2009) discuss is that random drug testing can help identify employees in need. Because healthcare workers are at a higher risk for substance abuse, to me it is a social responsibility that they check for this and offer help to those who need it. If an employee test is found positive, the substance and frequency of use should be looked at. If there has been no negligence or patient safety at hand, the organization should take measures to help the worker with things such a rehab or