Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Saint Marys, AK

What it is, How it works

Hair assessment is now recognized as an influential means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-lasting account of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands’ fibers as they grow. If taken near the scalp, hair can show an alcohol or drug presence for up to roughly 3 months. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to send.

A sample of 1.5 inches, containing about 200 hair strands (around the dimensions of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, additional checks, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If hair from the head isn’t available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. All other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.) are classified as body hair.

Process Overview

The primary stages involved in analyzing a drug test in a laboratory setting include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This step ensures the sample is correctly sealed and transported and that a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is allocated, along with any extra data entry needed beyond what an electronic chain of custody system supplies.

Screening involves a preliminary swift drug abuse check. While it’s an economical way to exclude drug use in most cases, a positive outcome requires confirmation to stand in a legal setting. Any presumptively positive samples from Screening need a follow-up confirmation.

If a sample marks presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. At this juncture, drugs are retrieved from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.

The Confirmation step for any positive screening outcome utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation, as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to the standards set by the CAP (College of American Pathologists) under their Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug assessments can uncover drug consumption for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter detection ranges.
• Minimal chance of deceit: Hair drug tests are notably hard to manipulate, enhancing accuracy in results.
• Reveals usage history: It offers insights into drug patterns over time, beyond just recent use.

Limitations:

• Cannot identify recent use: Drugs typically take about 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug assessments generally cost more than alternative methods.
• Result variations: Factors such as hair color and individual hair growth differences may impact drug metabolite concentration in the hair.

Note: Typically termed as "hair follicle tests", this analysis examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Saint Marys, AK, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests due to its superior detection accuracy. Hair tests offer a more thorough review, offering greater reliability in uncovering substance use, making them a preferred choice.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle tests in Saint Marys, AK, can identify drug usage over an extended period of up to 90 days. This lengthy detection window provides employers with detailed insight into the substance history of their employees or applicants.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Saint Marys, AK, provide a tamper-resistant testing approach, greatly minimizing the risk of adulteration. This method ensures that the results are both reliable and incontestable.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With convenient testing locations nationwide, including locally in Saint Marys, AK, Accredited Drug Testing provides hassle-free access to services. Our expansive network ensures timely and straightforward testing processes.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Saint Marys, AK, is straightforward and confidential. This method allows easy scheduling and responsive turnaround, while maintaining privacy throughout the process, easing any concerns about confidentiality.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing in Saint Marys, AK, offers affordable pricing with quick turnaround times. Our competitive rates ensure excellent value for businesses of all sizes, while delivering prompt and dependable results.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The precision of hair follicle drug tests makes them an excellent option for detecting substance use in Saint Marys, AK. These tests are known for their high accuracy and rapid results, providing reliable insights into an individual's drug history.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Saint Marys, AK, can achieve compliance and peace of mind by utilizing hair follicle testing. This method supports adherence to drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal exposure and promoting a safer environment.

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