What it is, How it works

Hair evaluations have emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The strands of hair entrap biomarkers, presenting an extensive timeline of alcohol and other drug usage. When extracted nearby to the scalp, hair can unveil an approximately 3-month detection duration for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

An optimal sample for evaluations and confirmation consists of a 1.5-inch piece of roughly 200 hair strands, similar to a #2 pencil in thickness, yielding 100mg of hair. For EtG, extras, and/or evaluations over 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn't accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be gathered. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory management of a drug test result entails four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory’s workflow. This phase includes the verification of a properly sealed and transported sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for substance misuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient method to identify the majority of non-users, any positive result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that are tentatively positive during Screening necessitate a further verification process.

Upon a tentative positive in Screening, additional hair undergoes retrieval from the original sample to prepare for Extraction. During this process, substances are extracted from hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug screening as a challenging methodology.

Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS follows any positive screening outcomes. All tentative positive samples are subjected to washing before Confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure—from Accessioning to Confirmation—undergoes scrutiny per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO/IEC 17025 standard accreditations.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Prolonged detection period: Hair evaluations can uncover drug use up to 90 days, contrasting with urine tests which have briefer detection periods.
Deterrent to deception: Tampering with a hair drug test is notably challenging, enhancing result reliability.
Records historical patterns: It maps patterns of drug use over an extended timeline, not merely recent activities.

Limitations:

Inability to identify recent consumption: A span of about 5-7 days is required before drugs are recognizable in hair.
Expense: Hair evaluations are often pricier than alternative testing techniques.
Variability in outcomes: Differences including hair color and unique growth patterns may influence metabolite concentrations in the hair.

Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, excluding the hair follicle located under the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle drug testing in Gakona, AK, offers distinct advantages over traditional urine testing. By extending the detection period, it enhances the overall accuracy, eliminating doubts about a subject's substance history.

It provides almost three months’ worth of traceable data, giving employers and authorities detailed insights.
Its enhanced reliability makes it superior for stringent regulations and policies.

Extended Detection Window

In Gakona, AK, hair follicle testing is a reliable window into an individual’s substance use history. This testing approach extends the detection timeframe, which typically goes up to 90 days.

Employers can gain comprehensive insights into applicants’ or current employees’ past substance encounters.
Such prolonged detection times exceed the limits of conventional testing methods like urine tests.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests offer a safeguard against sample tampering in Gakona, AK. Compared to other methodologies, these tests are highly tamper-resistant.

With minimal interference possible, results remain consistent and credible.
This resistance to adulteration means not only trust but also decisiveness in the results provided.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With conveniently placed testing locations across the nation and locally in Gakona, AK, locating a testing center has never been easier.

These centers facilitate fast and uncomplicated testing experiences, tailored to individual needs.
Clients benefit from a seamless and accessible process for their drug testing obligations.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Gakona, AK, is straightforward and confidential, addressing any concerns over privacy.

From ordering to sampling and receiving results, every step ensures user comfort and data security.
The ease of the process makes it a viable choice for both individuals and organizations.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Cost-effective solutions and short processing times distinguish our services in Gakona, AK. We pride ourselves on offering competitive rates and swift report delivery.

Our structured pricing models accommodate companies of varying scales.
Clients can rely on us for both value and promptness, essential for maintaining workplace integrity and standards.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The hair follicle drug testing in Gakona, AK ensures not only swiftness but also remarkable precision, setting benchmarks in substance use diagnostics. Fast and accurate, this method has become a pillar in drug identification due to its trustworthy results.

The analytic processes are finely attuned to highlight even minimal drug traces.
Its reliability ensures that employers gain a clear understanding of their team’s substance-related conduct.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance with workplace drug policies in Gakona, AK, is made simpler using hair follicle tests. These tests ensure an unwavering adherence to a drug-free environment, providing peace of mind.