I.  PURPOSE
 

To establish a policy and procedures for the distribution of fentanyl test strips by Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) to clients to be used to test for the presence of fentanyl in substances and thereby reduce the risk of opioid overdose.
 

II.  DEFINITION
 

Fentanyl Test Strips (FTS): Test strips with specifically reactive antibodies that react with fentanyl when a bit of substance is mixed in water.
 

III.  POLICY
 

The acquisition, storing, distribution, and accounting of the fentanyl test strips shall follow Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH/Department) procedures attached to this policy.

Directly operated programs shall only order fentanyl test strips from the DMH pharmacy warehouse in accord with DMH Policy 352.17 for clinic stock.

The following verbiage will be added to fentanyl test strips packaging by DMH pharmacy: “Distributed by LA County. Not for resale”.

Only clinic staff who have completed training shall request inventory, restock, distribute, and log inventory for fentanyl test strips.

Fentanyl test strips shall be stored in a cool dry place between 2°C to 30°C (35°F to 86°F).
 

IV.  PROCEDURES
 

Procedures - Distribution of Fentanyl Test Strips
 

V.  AUTHORITY
 

DMH Directive
 

VI.  ATTACHMENTS
 

Fentanyl Test Strips Inventory Log