Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying substance use. Hair strands can preserve a detailed history of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands. When sampled near the scalp, hair can indicate drug and alcohol use over a period that can extend to roughly 3 months. Hair is straightforward to obtain, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to send.
An ideal sample is a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 strands of hair (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, providing a 100mg sample perfect for both preliminary and confirmatory analysis. For EtG, extra considerations, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair may be obtained. "Head hair" specifies scalp hair exclusively, while "body hair" includes alternative hair types (like facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test includes Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is recorded within a laboratory’s system. This step involves ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening performs an initial evaluation for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate the possibility of drug use in most cases, a positive screen necessitates verification for legal validity. Samples showing presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo further verification.
Should a sample show presumptive positivity at Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial collection and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive result from screening is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are pre-washed for Confirmation, as dictated by requirements. The entire laboratory sequence from Accessioning through Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently called "hair follicle tests", the examination actually evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Brighton, IL, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests through enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis can identify drug use up to 90 days prior, creating a more comprehensive substance history profile. This method minimizes the risk of tampering and errors, providing employers and organizations with a superior evaluation tool in their drug-free policies.
The extended detection window offered by hair follicle tests in Brighton, IL, is transformative. Capable of identifying drug consumption up to 90 days before testing, this method enables employers to acquire a thorough understanding of a person's substance use history. This prolonged window is instrumental, particularly for organizations wanting consistent drug-free workplace assurance, enabling better informed hiring and employment decisions.
Hair follicle testing in Brighton, IL, stands out for its tamper-resistant features. By significantly lowering the chance of sample tampering, these tests offer reliable outcomes that are hard to dispute. This gives organizations and individuals greater confidence in the results, ensuring that the assessments truly reflect the tested individual's substance use history without interference.
The network of testing centers, including local options in Brighton, IL, makes drug testing with Accredited Drug Testing exceptionally convenient. Regardless of location within the U.S., access to testing services is quick and efficient. This broad availability ensures clients receive seamless service, enabling stress-free entry to essential drug screening wherever needed.
Ordering and undergoing hair follicle tests in Brighton, IL, is a straightforward and confidential process. Accredited Drug Testing ensures privacy every step of the way, from scheduling in Brighton or elsewhere to receiving results. The simplicity of this method reassures clients, allowing them to feel secure knowing their personal information remains confidential throughout the procedure.
Accredited Drug Testing in Brighton, IL, is dedicated to providing affordable pricing and quick test result turnaround. This commitment ensures clients, from individuals to large companies, receive excellent value for their investment. The efficient process ensures timely access to results, enhancing client satisfaction and supporting rapid decision-making where fast results are critical.
Hair follicle drug tests in Brighton, IL, offer unmatched precision and speed in evaluating substance use. The advanced testing methods ensure a high accuracy rate, setting them apart for their reliable results. Their ability to swiftly and correctly detect various substances provides individuals and organizations with a trustworthy assessment method, ensuring peace of mind in their drug testing processes.
For Brighton, IL employers, hair follicle testing promises compliance and peace of mind regarding workplace drug policies. Using this reliable testing method can secure adherence to drug-free regulations, mitigating potential legal issues. This strengthens overall workplace safety, promptly alerting employers to any substance-related concerns that may affect the work environment.
