Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a prolonged record of alcohol and drug presence by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of a growing strand. When obtained near the scalp, hair can yield an approximately 3-month span of detection for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for transportation.
A 1.5-inch section comprising around 200 hair strands (roughly equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will comprise 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, a similar amount of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory stages of a drug test result involve four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's system, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, attributing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any outstanding data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid evaluation for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to exclude drug use among most specimens, a positive result must undergo confirmation to be court-admissible. Any samples that show presumptive positivity in Screening mandate subsequent confirmation.
If a specimen shows presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is taken from the primary sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), distinguishing hair drug screening as the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis examines the hair strand and not the follicle under the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Midland, AR
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests, ensuring more reliable screening. The extended detection window and reduced tampering risk make hair testing a preferred choice for many organizations.
Extended Detection Window in Midland, AR
Hair follicle testing can detect drug use over a period of up to 90 days, offering a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance use history. This extended detection window is crucial for employers aiming to understand long-term behaviors.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Midland, AR
Hair follicle tests are designed to significantly reduce the risk of sample tampering, ensuring reliable outcomes. The method removes uncertainties related to sample integrity, providing unquestionable results for organizations.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Midland, AR
Our nationwide network of testing centers provides easy access and convenience. Whether in Midland or beyond, our centers support fast and hassle-free testing, ensuring minimal disruption for clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Midland, AR
The ordering, testing, and result reporting process is simple and discreet, addressing privacy concerns. The confidentiality and ease of this method reassure those undertaking tests.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Midland, AR
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times ensure excellent value, catering to companies of all sizes while delivering reliable results swiftly. This affordability vitalizes interest across diverse sectors.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Midland, AR
Hair follicle drug testing offers high precision and speed in identifying substance use. Thanks to its comprehensive analytical capabilities, this method ensures accurate drug detection, serving a crucial role in maintaining safe, drug-free environments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Midland, AR
Hair follicle testing helps organizations adhere to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal issues and promoting safety. Employers enjoy a reduction in compliance-related risks, ensuring peace of mind.
