Shy Bladder / Shy Lung
A situation where the donor is unable to provide a sufficient urine specimen (shy bladder) or breath sample (shy lung) during a drug or alcohol test.
Key Facts
- Inability to provide a sufficient urine or breath specimen
- Donor allowed up to 3 hours and 40 oz of fluids for urine
- If still unable, must undergo medical evaluation within 5 days
- Physician determines if legitimate medical explanation exists
- No valid medical explanation = refusal to test
Under 49 CFR Part 40, when a donor cannot provide at least 45 mL of urine, the collector documents a "shy bladder" situation. The donor is given up to 3 hours and 40 ounces of fluids to attempt another collection. If still unable, the employer must refer the donor for a medical evaluation within 5 business days. A licensed physician determines whether there is a legitimate physiological or pre-existing psychological condition that prevents the donor from providing. If no valid medical explanation exists, the MRO reports the test as a refusal to test. The same process applies to "shy lung" situations where an employee cannot provide an adequate breath sample for alcohol testing.
Drug Test Results & Specimen Issues Compared
Understanding the different outcomes and specimen-related issues in drug testing.
| Type | Meaning | Reported By | Next Steps | MRO Role |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Positive | Confirmed presence above cutoff | Laboratory → MRO | MRO interview, then report to employer | Verify with donor — medical explanation? |
| Negative | No substances detected above cutoff | Laboratory → MRO | Employee cleared | Review and release result |
| Dilute | Creatinine 2–20 mg/dL & SG 1.0001–1.0029 | Laboratory → MRO | Employer may request retest (one time) | Report as negative-dilute or positive-dilute |
| Shy Bladder / Shy Lung | Unable to provide sufficient specimen | Collector | Medical evaluation within 5 days | Evaluate medical explanation |
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