Complexities of Drug Testing in Child Welfare

This session examines the use of drug testing in child welfare cases and challenges the tendency to treat results as simply “positive” or “negative.” Participants will review the science behind toxicology testing, including the sensitivity and specificity of different methods, and identify common misinterpretations—particularly in urine screening—that can affect case outcomes. The session will also encourage participants to assess their own organizational policies and identify opportunities for improvement.

By the end of the session, participants will be able to:
1. Compare the sensitivity and specificity of various forms of toxicological testing;
2. Identify common misinterpretations in urine screening; and
3. Examine organizational drug testing policies for improvement.

Participants will leave better equipped to critically evaluate toxicology evidence, recognize its limitations, and support more accurate, informed decision-making in child welfare cases.

This course is approved for 1.5 general CLE hours.

Register here: https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/xefsOcggSFiI2O1nwozV2g