Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Alma, AR

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a reliable means for detecting substance usage. It offers a prolonged record of drugs and alcohol by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over a period of roughly 90 days. Collecting hair is straightforward, fairly tamper-proof, and easy to transport.

A 1.5-inch portion of around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is perfect for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn’t an option, equivalent body hair can be used. References to head hair mean scalp hair only, while body hair covers all other types (like facial or axillary).

Process Overview

The key laboratory stages in processing a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the preliminary procedure of entering a sample into the laboratory’s workflow. This step includes checking that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, giving it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and carrying out any additional data input not included in an electronic chain of custody setup.

Screening acts as an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Though Screening efficiently excludes drug usage from most samples, a positive result must be confirmed for legal acceptance. Presumptive positives from Screening need further verification.

For a sample that tests positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original collection for Extraction. Here, substances are extracted from the hair at much lower levels than in other processes (e.g., urine or saliva), hence hair drug testing is one of the most challenging techniques to execute.

To verify any positive screening outcome, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used. Prior to verification, presumptive positive samples undergo a washing process. The complete analysis from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined as per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Can identify drug use for up to 3 months, unlike urine tests which have a shorter timeframe.
• Hard to tamper with: It is highly resistant to manipulation, ensuring more reliable results.
• Shows usage history: It unveils drug use patterns over a duration, beyond just recent use.

Limitations:

• No recent use detection: Requires roughly 5-7 days for things like drugs to show up in hair.
• Costly: Generally, hair tests cost more than other methods.
• Result inconsistency: Elements like hair color and growth variations can influence drug metabolite levels in hair strands.

Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually assesses the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Triumphs Over Urine Testing in Alma, AR
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, hair samples offer superior detection and reliability.

• Extended Detection: Up to 90 days of substance history.
• Reduced Tampering: Harder to alter results compared to urine samples.
• Higher Accuracy: More precise in capturing drug use over time.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Alma, AR
Hair follicle testing is crucial for employers seeking detailed substance histories. Unlike other methods, hair analysis detects drug use for up to 90 days.

• Comprehensive View: Track past substance use.
• Enhanced Employee Screening: Offers better insight into applicant histories.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Alma, AR
Hair follicle tests minimize sample manipulation risks.

• Secure Handling: Observed sample collection minimizes contaminations.
• Dependable Results: Results that hold up under scrutiny.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Alma, AR
Our nationwide centers offer quick and accessible solutions for drug testing needs.

• Quick Access: Local centers provide speedy services.
• Hassle-Free: Easy access to facilities saves time.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Alma, AR
Our hair follicle drug testing process is both straightforward and private.

• Easy Procedures: Effortless from testing to results.
• Privacy Guaranteed: Confidential handling of all samples and results.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Alma, AR
We offer competitive pricing and rapid results for hair follicle drug tests.

• Budget-Friendly: Cost-effective options for all businesses.
• Speedy Delivery: Quick processing times for timely decisions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Alma, AR, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched. Their accuracy in detecting substance use is paramount. Why choose hair testing?

• Fast Results: Quick turnaround times that don’t compromise on accuracy.
• Reliable Detection: High precision in identifying a range of substances.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Alma, AR
Hair follicle testing is key for maintaining workplace drug-free policies, reducing legal liabilities, and fostering safer work environments.

• Consistency with Policies: Adheres to strict substance regulations.
• Reduced Risks: Cuts legal challenges and liability claims.

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