Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Amherstdale, WV

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying the presence of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged timeline of substance use by embedding indicators within the strands of hair as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal usage history up to a roughly 3-month period for alcohol and drugs. The sample collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil thickness) taken from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is an optimal sample size for both screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, it is advised to use 150mg of the specimen. Utilizing a jeweler's scale is recommended for measuring the sample's weight. Should scalp hair not be present, a proportional quantity of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair pertains to any other type of hair (e.g., facial, axillary).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage where the sample is incorporated into the laboratory system. This process involves confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves a preliminary assessment to detect potential drug abuse. Although it is a cost-efficient method for eliminating drug usage in most samples, any positive finding needs confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that presumptively test positive during Screening require further confirmation.

In cases of presumptive positive results during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are separated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is notoriously complex.

Confirmation for any positive result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples that are presumptively positive undergo a washing process prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory operation, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a much shorter window.
• Resistance to manipulation: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely challenging, leading to more accurate outcomes.
• Chronological insight: It offers insight into drug use patterns over time, rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Lacks recent use detection: Hair needs about 5-7 days for substances to become detectable.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other forms of drug testing.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand itself, not on the hair follicle located under the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair testing in Amherstdale, WV, offers several advantages over traditional urine tests. By providing a higher degree of accuracy and reliability, hair tests can detect substances more effectively. This method is favored for its superior detection abilities.

Extended Detection Window

The extended detection period of hair follicle testing in Amherstdale, WV, is a significant advantage. Capable of identifying drug usage over a span of 90 days, it offers a thorough insight into an individual's substance usage history, invaluable for employers.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Amherstdale, WV, provides an almost tamper-proof solution. By minimizing the possibility of sample adulteration, it ensures trustworthy and consistent results that can withstand scrutiny.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With numerous testing locations in Amherstdale, WV, and nationwide, accessibility to hair follicle testing is made convenient. Our centers offer a quick and uncomplicated approach ensuring smooth service for all clients.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Amherstdale, WV, is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to obtaining results, each step maintains privacy, addressing user concerns effectively and maintaining ease of access throughout.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive pricing and expedited turnaround characterize our services in Amherstdale, WV. Our structure ensures affordability while providing exceptional service quality and swift results for all clients.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Amherstdale, WV, the efficiency of hair follicle drug testing is unmatched. Hair tests provide accurate results swiftly, thanks to their advanced methodologies. Whether for employment or legal requirements, you can trust these tests to deliver precise identifications of substance use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

In Amherstdale, WV, hair follicle testing aids employers in aligning with drug-free workplace policies. This approach not only diminishes legal liabilities but also enhances the overall safety and compliance of the workplace.

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