Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. The hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug consumption by encasing biomarkers within its growing strands. When collected near the scalp, it offers an approximate 3-month detection period for substances. Hair samples are easy to obtain, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch cluster of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp provides 100mg, which is the ideal amount for screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg specimen is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for measurement is advisable. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent portion of body hair can be sampled. When discussing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The key steps in laboratory drug test processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where a sample is integrated into a lab's system. This involves ensuring the sample's sealing and shipment were accurate, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data entry absent from an electronic custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary evaluation for illicit substances. Although Screening is an economical method to negate drug presence in most samples, positively flagged samples require further confirmation for judicial admissibility. Any presumptive positive results from Screening must undergo secondary verification.
For samples testing positive during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations lower than those in other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), rendering hair drug analysis the most complex method to conduct.
Confirmation of positively screened results is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positives are washed prior to confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory process adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the examination actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Coffman Cove, AK
Hair follicle testing offers superior benefits over urine testing, with a detection accuracy and reliability that surpass conventional methods. By capturing a comprehensive substance use history, results bring greater assurance.
In contrast to urine tests, hair tests stand out with their broader detection windows and tamper-proof collection, making them the preferred choice for discerning professionals in Coffman Cove, AK.
Extended Detection Window in Coffman Cove, AK
Hair follicle testing uniquely provides a detection range of up to 90 days, granting employers an in-depth understanding of an individual's substance use history.
This extensive period not only aids in thorough assessments but also empowers informed decision-making by providing a more complete view of the applicant or employee’s past habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Coffman Cove, AK
Hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage by minimizing the possibility of test tampering, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of the results.
This robust method provides peace of mind to employers by upholding the highest standards of accuracy and permanence, making deception all but impossible in Coffman Cove, AK.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Coffman Cove, AK
Accredited Drug Testing's expansive network, including local Coffman Cove centers, ensures easy access to testing services, eliminating the hassle through national and regional convenience.
This accessibility facilitates prompt and stress-free testing, catering to client needs efficiently anywhere they are.
Simple, Confidential Process in Coffman Cove, AK
The hair follicle testing procedure is streamlined for simplicity and confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring ease of access for users.
From ordering to taking the test to receiving results, each step is designed to respect and protect individual privacy, enhancing user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Coffman Cove, AK
With competitive pricing models and quick turnaround times, Accredited Drug Testing provides outstanding value, giving companies of all sizes peace of mind.
Affordable rates coupled with speed elevate the testing process, making it accessible and attractive to any enterprise looking for reliable results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Coffman Cove, AK
Experience the power of precision and speed with hair follicle drug tests. With high accuracy, these tests ensure reliable detection of substance use, critical for safety and compliance needs.
Unlike some traditional methods, hair tests provide not only swift results but also an unerring accuracy that ensures confidence for employers and individuals alike in Coffman Cove, AK.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Coffman Cove, AK
Ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies, hair follicle testing can significantly diminish legal risks while contributing to a safer workplace environment.
Employers gain peace of mind knowing they are utilizing a dependable method of testing, crucial for maintaining organizational integrity and upholding safety standards.
