Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can offer an approximate 3-month detection window for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for accurate weighing. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we're specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory's system. This step involves ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and entering any supplementary data not included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid test for substance misuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result must be verified for court acceptance. Samples that are believed to be positive during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Samples identified as potentially positive during the Screening stage are further examined by obtaining more hair from the original sample and preparing it for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The entire laboratory procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Superior Detection with Hair Follicle Tests in Mocksville, NC
Hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests by offering a broader detection window and enhanced accuracy. Employers in Mocksville prefer hair tests due to their reliability in detecting long-term substance use, thereby providing a more comprehensive overview of an individual's drug history compared to standard urine tests.
Long Detection Window in Mocksville, NC
Hair follicle tests provide an extended detection timeframe, identifying drug use over 90 days. This broad range allows employers in Mocksville to obtain a thorough substance history of individuals, thereby assisting in informed decision-making about hires and maintaining a drug-free environment.
Robust Tamper-Resistance in Mocksville, NC
The nature of hair follicle drug testing makes it a highly tamper-resistant method. By substantially reducing the chance of sample adulteration, these tests provide accurate and unquestionable results crucial for maintaining the integrity of drug testing processes in Mocksville.
Easy Access to Testing Centers in Mocksville, NC
With numerous testing centers across the nation, including Mocksville, accessing hair follicle drug testing services is straightforward, hassle-free, and prompt. This widespread availability ensures that getting tested is convenient for employers and individuals alike.
Simple and Confidential Testing Process in Mocksville, NC
In Mocksville, the process of ordering, utilizing, and retrieving results from a hair follicle drug test is straightforward and discreet. Privacy concerns are minimized, offering an easily navigable experience for all involved.
Affordable and Efficient Testing in Mocksville, NC
With competitive pricing models and quick turnaround times, hair follicle drug testing in Mocksville provides excellent value. This affordability, combined with speed, ensures that companies, regardless of size, can maintain peace of mind and operational efficiency.
Speed and Precision of Hair Follicle Testing in Mocksville, NC
Hair follicle drug tests in Mocksville offer expedited and precise results, making them a superior option for detecting substance use. These tests boast high accuracy, enabling reliable identification of drug or alcohol consumption. Their efficiency in delivering results also makes them invaluable for employers seeking prompt and trustworthy information.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety in Mocksville, NC
Implementing hair follicle testing enables Mocksville employers to ensure compliance with drug-free policies, lower legal risks, and increase workplace safety. Such measures provide peace of mind, confirming that both employers and employees adhere to a standard of integrity.
