The medical review officer
Article Abstract:
One in five workers is currently employed at a company that has a drug testing program. Random drug testing became common in the 1980s. Beginning in the military, it soon extended to other government agencies and private corporations. In 1988, the Department of Health and Human Services released guidelines for drug testing procedures in federal government agencies; the guidelines were designed to assure that testing would be consistent, accurate and confidential. The procedures include a requirement that a physician, known as the Medical Review Officer (MRO), interpret any positive test result and determine if it is actually indicative of drug use by the employee. This step in the drug testing process is critical because when a sample tests positive for drugs, it does not necessarily mean the employee is abusing drugs. The MRO is a licensed physician who is experienced in recognizing substance abuse and capable of interpreting the positive test result in the context of the employee's medical history. Some of the responsibilities of the MRO are to receive test results and reject any reports that do not conform to the procedures set by the employer. The MRO discusses positive results with the employee, orders reanalysis of the specimen if indicated, and determines whether there is a legitimate explanation for the positive result other than illicit drug use. If drug use is confirmed, the MRO then reports the findings to the employee's superior and refers the employee to the company's employee assistance program. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1990
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Medical management of hydrofluoric acid exposure
Article Abstract:
Hydrofluoric acid (HF) is extremely corrosive and used in industry for etching and cleaning. Although most physicians see HF burns from householders using dilute HF to remove rust, occupational physicians are likely to encounter mild to severe injuries, as industrial forms of HF are usually more concentrated. The chemistry and tissue basis for injuries are described. Appropriate treatment following exposure to the skin, eyes, or by inhalation or ingestion is discussed. As HF can easily penetrate to deep tissues, early and copious water washes of the affected area are critical. Addition of agents which can neutralize HF is helpful as well. Significant levels of exposure can affect body chemistry severely by altering electrolytes (salts like potassium, sodium, and calcium), and these effects must be recognized and treated. Most exposures to HF can prevented. Substitution of less hazardous procedures, appropriate engineering of the work area, and intact safety equipment and clothing are among the measures that should be considered. Worker education about the hazards of HF and about appropriate work practices and spill procedures is of the utmost importance. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1990
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Hepatitis B in a medical center
Article Abstract:
Evaluation of all employees with known blood product exposure has been a standard practice since January 1977 at Employee Health Service of Duke University. All known cases of hepatitis B among employees also evaluated. Hepatitis B appears to be a significant occupational hazard for hospital personnel.
Publication Name: Journal of Occupational Medicine
Subject: Health care industry
ISSN: 0096-1736
Year: 1981
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