Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug use. A long-term record of alcohol and drug consumption can be traced in hair since biomarkers are embedded in the strands as they grow. When clipped near the scalp, hair can provide an approximate 3-month window for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
Gathering a 1.5-inch segment with about 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both primary screening and confirmation purposes. For extra assessments like EtG and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair be absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. The reference to head hair pertains strictly to scalp hair, with body hair covering all other types (facial, body, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory operations involve four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary steps of entering a sample into the laboratory system. This includes checking that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes a rapid preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Even though Screening is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, a court-viable result requires confirmation of any positive screening. Any sample appearing positive in Screening mandates a secondary confirmation.
For samples showing positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and prepared for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods like urine or oral fluids, making hair drug screening more challenging to perform.
Positive results from Screening are confirmed utilizing methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples that are presumptively positive undergo washing before Confirmation if necessary. This entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed following both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the actual testing process examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Comparing hair follicle and urine drug tests in Rose Bud, AR, highlights the former's many benefits. Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy, allowing substances to be identified long after use. This enhanced reliability ensures a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance use history, making it preferable to more traditional urine tests, especially for long-term monitoring.
In Rose Bud, AR, hair follicle tests offer an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This long-term insight provides employers with a detailed perspective on an individual’s substance use over time. By covering a broader period, hair tests present a more complete picture of an applicant or employee's past behavior, aiding in informed decision-making.
Hair follicle tests in Rose Bud, AR, are renowned for reducing the risk of tampering. The robustness of this testing method ensures sample integrity, producing results that are both unquestionable and trustworthy. For organizations seeking reliable drug testing methods, hair follicle tests offer unmatched protection against sample adulteration.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to testing services with numerous locations across Rose Bud, AR, and nationwide. Our widespread centers guarantee quick and easy testing access, simplifying the process for clients. This nationwide reach means that no matter where you are, efficient drug testing services are within easy reach.
Our hair follicle testing in Rose Bud, AR, emphasizes simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to results delivery, the process is hassle-free, ensuring privacy and convenience. Individuals seeking drug testing services can proceed with peace of mind, knowing their personal information will remain confidential and the process straightforward.
Offering affordable pricing and rapid turnaround, our hair follicle testing in Rose Bud, AR, proves excellent value. Companies of all sizes benefit from competitive rates and quick results, reassuring businesses that they are investing in a cost-effective and efficient testing solution, crucial for maintaining high standards.
When it comes to precision and speed, hair follicle drug tests in Rose Bud, AR, lead the way. These tests stand out for their high accuracy, pinpointing substance use with outstanding reliability. By choosing hair follicle testing, individuals and organizations can expect rapid results without compromising accuracy, making it an ideal choice for those needing swift and precise answers.
Implementing hair follicle testing in Rose Bud, AR, helps employers achieve compliance with drug-free workplace policies. These tests reduce legal risks and enhance safety in the workplace, offering peace of mind to organizations. By ensuring adherence to regulations, businesses can foster a healthier and compliant environment.
