chapter 3: Drug Checking: Technologies & Procedures
Chapter 3: Drug Checking: Technologies & Procedures focus is to inform the reader on the technical side of drug checking. This chapter has been written from the authors' first hand experience working in this field and is filled with practical hands on tips for providing drug checking.
Much of the technical language surrounding drug checking has been defined in a way that is accessible to those of all backgrounds. This includes terminology such as binary, qualitative, quantitative, diluent, homogeneous, spectrum and cross-contamination.
Some technologies used for drug checking will be explored, and various projects across Canada will be highlighted including the technologies they have implemented. The process of testing flow will be discussed, which includes the three steps - intake, testing, and results. A testing procedures section looks at considerations for testing specific substances, using an FTIR for testing as well as how to use both fentanyl and benzo test strips.
Learning Objectives:
Reflect on the considerations that go into selecting appropriate technologies
for a DC service, including the three tiers of technologies.Become familiar with various DC projects throughout Canada, including what technologies they are using.
Define terminology related to DC including qualitative, semi-quantitative and quantitative.
Understand the flow of DC — intake, testing and results — including setting up a workstation with appropriate supplies, how to handle samples, and accurately label samples.
Learn FTIR testing techniques for a variety of challenging substances to get an accurate reading and how to properly run both fentanyl and benzodiazepine (benzo) test strips.