Hair Follicle Drug Testing - West Helena, AR

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands offer a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. When hair is sampled closely from the scalp, it can reveal a detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches with about 200 strands (roughly the breadth of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, it is suggested to use 150mg of the sample. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If no scalp hair is available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four principal steps in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system, which includes ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves a preliminary, rapid assessment for drugs of misuse. While Screening minimizes costs and excludes drug usage in many samples, a confirmed positive result is necessary for legal acceptability. Samples that show a presumptive positive in Screening require subsequent confirmation.

If a presumptive positive arises in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening is challenging to execute.

Any positive Screening results are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive samples undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed according to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Benefits of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests possess a detection period of up to 90 days, which is longer than urine tests.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is quite difficult, leading to more reliable results.
• Shows historical patterns: It can portray a timeline of drug use rather than just recent consumption.

Constraints:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs need about 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug tests are costlier than other testing techniques.
• Result inconsistencies: Elements such as hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in West Helena, AR
The tangible benefits of hair testing over urine tests are evident.

• Hair tests excel in detection accuracy by capturing substance use over extended periods.
• Results are reliable and difficult to tamper with.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in West Helena, AR
One key advantage of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over a prolonged period, up to 90 days.

• This extended window offers employers a broad overview of an individual's substance history.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in West Helena, AR
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the likelihood of sample tampering.

• The method is respected for its robustness and virtually tamper-proof nature.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in West Helena, AR
Our extensive network of testing centers provides unparalleled convenience.

• Services are readily accessible, minimizing hassle and increasing efficiency.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in West Helena, AR
The process for ordering and undertaking hair follicle testing is straightforward and secure.

• Clients can expect privacy and ease throughout the procedure.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in West Helena, AR
We offer competitive pricing options coupled with quick processing times.

• These factors ensure that our services offer excellent value for businesses of all sizes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in West Helena, AR
The hair follicle drug test is renowned for its rapid and precise results.

• Detection accuracy is unmatched, effectively identifying substance use.
• Employers in need of swift and reliable testing are assured of trustworthy outcomes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in West Helena, AR
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free policies.

• This reduces the risk of legal complications and contributes to a safer work environment.

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