Opiate Confirmation, Chain of Custody, Meconium
Use
This test is useful for detecting maternal prenatal opiate/opioid use up to 5 months before birth. It is especially crucial in legal settings where the evidence of illicit drug use during pregnancy can be cause for separating the baby from the mother. The test ensures the rights of the individual contributing the specimen are protected by maintaining a chain of custody, thus limiting the opportunity for specimen tampering and ensuring results are appropriate for legal proceedings.
Special Instructions
The test requires the use of a Chain of Custody Meconium Kit (T653) which includes the necessary specimen containers, seals, and documentation for maintaining chain of custody. Chain of custody is mandatory for legal proceedings, and specimens should be sent by overnight shipment. Specimens arriving with a broken seal do not meet chain of custody requirements.
Limitations
The test cannot determine the exact timing or amount of exposure. It should not be used to directly assess the degree of impairment or maternal behavior. Potential for diagnostic confusion exists if specimens are not collected following strict chain-of-custody procedures. Evidence of illicit drug use during pregnancy can lead to legal actions; thus, it is essential to maintain the integrity of the process to ensure legally sound results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 69026-3
- 69027-1
- 69028-9
- 68541-2
- 68542-0
- 68543-8
- 68544-6
- 8215-6
- 77202-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 g
Minimum Volume
0.3 g
Container
Chain of Custody Meconium Kit (T653)
Collection Instructions
Collect the entire random meconium specimen. If not ordering electronically, complete and send a Therapeutics Test Request form with the specimen.
Storage Instructions
Store meconium specimens frozen for up to 28 days or ambient for 14 days.
Causes for Rejection
Grossly bloody specimens are rejected. Stool in diapers is also a cause for rejection.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |