This laboratory analysis detects the presence of a specific anesthetic and analgesic in a patient’s bodily waste. It serves as an objective measure to ascertain if the substance has been used. For example, the analysis can confirm adherence to a prescribed treatment plan or identify potential substance misuse.
The assessment plays a crucial role in monitoring controlled substance therapies and investigating potential drug-facilitated crimes. Its benefits extend to informing clinical decisions, ensuring patient safety, and providing legally defensible evidence in relevant cases. The historical context of its development is rooted in the expanding need for comprehensive substance abuse monitoring and diagnostic toxicology.