Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-lasting record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strands as they grow. Hair collected near the scalp offers a detection timeframe of roughly 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat tough to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) located closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair, while body hair includes all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in lab processing for drug test outcomes comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and transported, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for drug misuse. Though a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result in Screening needs confirmation to stand in legal proceedings. Samples yielding a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which makes hair drug testing exceedingly challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Washing of all presumptive positive samples is performed prior to confirmation as required. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets the accreditation criteria of ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes labeled as "hair follicle tests", the evaluation targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
When deciding between hair follicle and traditional urine tests in Blackton, AR, hair testing often prevails due to its superior accuracy. Hair tests offer a broader detection scope, capturing a wider range of substances and usage timelines.
For institutions and employers, hair follicle testing offers reassurance with its thoroughness.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Blackton, AR is a significant advantage, tracking substance use for up to 90 days. This provides an in-depth insight into an individual's drug use history, assisting employers in making informed decisions.
This extended awareness helps in assessing an applicant's or employee's reliability and behavioral patterns.
In Blackton, AR, the hair follicle testing approach minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring tamper-resistant outcomes. The collection process, under observation, eliminates opportunities for sample tampering.
The integrity of hair tests supports regulatory compliance and trust.
Accredited Testing locations in Blackton, AR are part of a convenient nationwide network, providing easy access to hair follicle testing services. This expansive reach ensures that individuals and companies can find a facility without hassle.
Having local centers means enhanced accessibility and reduced travel concerns.
In Blackton, AR, the hair follicle testing process is both simple and confidential. The ordering and testing process is designed to be user-friendly, catering to privacy concerns effectively.
This attention to detail fosters trust and enhances user experience by prioritizing discretion.
Hair follicle drug testing in Blackton, AR is recognized for its affordable pricing and expedited turnaround times. Clients appreciate the competitive cost structure that offers excellent value.
Companies benefit from reduced costs while receiving reliable and swift results.
Hair follicle testing in Blackton, AR promises fast and accurate results. The advanced technology used ensures high precision in identifying substance use, making it a reliable choice.
The overall process remarkably reduces wait times, ensuring timely feedback on test results.
Compliance with drug-free workplace policies is a top priority for employers in Blackton, AR. Hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence, thereby reducing potential legal risks.
Adopting hair testing bolsters confidence in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
