How should reflex testing results be reported when the initial screen is positive but the reflex test is negative?

How should reflex testing results be reported when the initial screen is positive but the reflex test is negative?

• A. Report the negative result as negative with no notes
• B. Report the confirmatory result as negative with an explanatory note about the initial screen
• C. Report both results as inconclusive
• D. Suppress the initial screen result

Answer: (B)

In reflex testing, the final result is determined by the confirmatory test. If the initial screen is positive but the reflex confirmatory test is negative, the overall report should show a negative result based on the confirmatory test, with an explanatory note indicating that the initial screen was positive but not confirmed. This approach communicates clearly that the more specific test did not detect the substance, despite the screening result, and helps the reader understand the discrepancy. Including a brief note about the initial positive screen provides necessary context and avoids misinterpretation. Suppressing the initial screen, reporting inconclusive when the confirmatory is negative, or omitting notes would mislead or obscure what happened; the correct practice is to document the final negative result with a note about the initial positive screen.