Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Kent Narrows, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as an impactful method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a prolonged overview of drug and alcohol use by capturing biomarkers within the hair's growing strands. Collecting samples near the scalp can provide detections for up to three months. Hair samples are easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.

Collecting a segment of 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (equating to a #2 pencil width) closest to the scalp yields a 100mg sample, ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair can't be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. Scalp hair refers specifically to head hair, while body hair encompasses other types (such as facial or underarm hair).

Process Overview

Laboratory processing of drug test results includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, samples are initially processed into the lab system. This involves ensuring the sample is appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening offers an initial test for drug abuse. Although cost-efficient for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen needs corroboration for acceptance in legal settings. Samples that test positive in Screening require additional confirmation.

When a sample indicates positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are drawn from hair at lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair testing particularly challenging.

Confirmation of a positive screen is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS processes. All samples testing positive in Screening typically undergo a washing process before confirmation. The entire process undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests detect drug use for a stretch of up to 90 days, unlike the shorter span of urine tests.
• Resistance to tampering: Hair drug tests are challenging to manipulate, ensuring result reliability.
• Historical usage insight: It spans drug use over time, not merely immediate consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: Drugs take about 5-7 days to be traceable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests often incur higher costs compared to other testing options.
• Variable outcomes: Hair color and individual hair growth rates can influence metabolite concentrations.

Note: Commonly dubbed as "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Kent Narrows, MD

In Kent Narrows, hair follicle testing is outshining traditional urine testing. With a much longer detection window, hair tests prove superior in tracing drug use over time, providing more reliable data. This method ensures accuracy and reduces the chances of manipulation, giving stakeholders the edge in ensuring compliance with organizational standards.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Kent Narrows, MD

Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window of up to 90 days. This enables employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an employee's or candidate's substance use history. In Kent Narrows, this testing method provides an invaluable tool, allowing businesses to make informed decisions by accessing detailed profiles of substance consumption over time.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Kent Narrows, MD

Hair follicle tests in Kent Narrows significantly curb the risk of sample tampering. These tests ensure that results remain credible and highly reliable due to their resistance to external manipulation. Businesses can trust that the outcomes reflect genuine behavior, reducing doubt and enhancing the integrity of drug testing measures.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Kent Narrows, MD

Our nationwide network of testing centers, including those in Kent Narrows, ensures easy access to drug testing services. Conveniently located, these facilities provide hassle-free and swift service, accommodating businesses and individuals alike. Enjoy the convenience and efficiency of getting reliable test outcomes quickly, wherever you are.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Kent Narrows, MD

The process for obtaining hair follicle tests in Kent Narrows is straightforward and respects privacy. From ordering to testing to receiving results, every step is designed for ease. We prioritize confidentiality, ensuring that your data is safe and that the procedure remains seamless, putting any privacy concerns to rest.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Kent Narrows, MD

We offer competitive pricing on hair follicle tests, paired with rapid turnaround times. This makes our testing services in Kent Narrows both cost-effective and efficient, providing exceptional value. Companies of varied scales can benefit, staying informed without overspending, ensuring test results are both timely and budget-friendly.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Kent Narrows, MD

Our hair follicle drug tests in Kent Narrows offer swift and dependable results. The precision of these tests is unmatched, allowing us to detect substance use reliably. Employers benefit from rapid turnarounds and high accuracy, ensuring confident decision-making regarding employee assessments. Experience the assurance that comes with our state-of-the-art testing solutions.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Kent Narrows, MD

Employers in Kent Narrows can rest assured with our hair follicle testing, which fortifies compliance with workplace drug policies. This testing method minimizes legal risks and supports the maintenance of a safe, drug-free work environment. Gain peace of mind while ensuring both safety and regulatory adherence with our reliable testing solutions.

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