Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair strands, hair offers a prolonged history of alcohol and drug intake. When sourced close to the scalp, hair can reveal an estimated 3-month detection period for substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the perfect amount for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If head hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be obtained. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing drug test results comprises four principal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves integrating a sample into a laboratory’s system initially. This step includes ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any extra data not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for substance misuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient method to rule out drug consumption for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any samples that show presumptive positives during Screening require further confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. At this point, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a washing step before confirmation as necessary. The whole laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Oak Springs, AZ
In Oak Springs, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests in accuracy and reliability. It offers a superior detection window, allowing identification of drug use over an extended period. Unlike urine tests, which might miss longer-term use, hair testing provides a more comprehensive analysis, making it a crucial tool for vigilant substance assessment.
Extended Detection Window in Oak Springs, AZ
Hair follicle testing in Oak Springs provides a substantial detection period of up to 90 days, offering employers a comprehensive insight into an individual's past substance use. This extended window surpasses the capabilities of other testing methods, granting a more robust understanding of a person's drug history and aiding in better-informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Oak Springs, AZ
The integrity of hair follicle testing in Oak Springs is remarkable, as it significantly mitigates the risk of tampering. The testing process ensures that samples are nearly impossible to adulterate, providing reliable and indisputable results. This tamper-resistant quality is especially valuable for rigorous screening environments where accuracy is paramount.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Oak Springs, AZ
Accredited Drug Testing ensures convenience with its numerous nationwide centers. Residents of Oak Springs benefit from easy access to nearby testing locations, ensuring a hassle-free and swift process for all testing needs. This extensive network makes accessing testing services both efficient and straightforward.
Simple, Confidential Process in Oak Springs, AZ
The process of hair follicle testing in Oak Springs is designed to be both simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the steps are streamlined and respect privacy. Individuals can trust that their personal information is protected, ensuring a worry-free testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Oak Springs, AZ
Employers in Oak Springs benefit from Accredited Drug Testing's competitive pricing and fast turnaround. This service ensures excellent value for businesses of all sizes, reinforcing the commitment to delivering cost-effective and timely testing solutions, positively impacting workplace drug policies with efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Oak Springs, AZ
Hair follicle drug tests in Oak Springs are renowned for their precision and reliability. Unlike traditional methods, they deliver fast and accurate results, ensuring that any substance use is promptly identified. This high level of accuracy stems from the advanced technology used, making it a preferred choice for many seeking dependable drug testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Oak Springs, AZ
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Oak Springs assures employers of compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks and promotes a safer work environment through its comprehensive testing abilities. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that their drug testing processes are thorough and adhere to regulatory standards.
