Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over a period extending up to about three months. It's easy to gather hair, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment containing roughly 200 strands of hair (comparable to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It's recommended to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, the same quantity of body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory workflow for processing a test result involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of entering a sample into the lab's records. This step ensures the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data input not managed by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for substance abuse. While Screening is cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive result needs further validation to be usable in legal proceedings. Any samples testing positive during Screening need a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from the hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), which is why hair testing poses more challenges.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any potentially positive samples are cleansed prior to further validation as necessary. The whole laboratory sequence, from Accessioning to Confirmation, follows rigorous review standards under CAP (College of American Pathologists) and aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure assess the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bodega Bay, CA
Hair follicle tests in Bodega Bay reveal superior detection capability over traditional urine tests. These tests offer extended detection windows, capturing drug traces for up to 90 days, outshining urine tests that only identify recent use. The comprehensive detection and reliability make hair tests a superior alternative.
Extended Detection Window in Bodega Bay, CA
Hair follicle testing in Bodega Bay provides an extensive detection span, distinguishing it from other methods. By tracing drug use back up to 90 days, these tests grant employers insight into an individual's long-term substance habits, offering a richer perspective on their drug history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bodega Bay, CA
In Bodega Bay, hair follicle tests are hailed for their tamper-proof nature. Unlike urine tests that might be susceptible to manipulation, hair tests are incredibly challenging to cheat, providing unwavering confidence in the results to test administrators and employers alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bodega Bay, CA
Accredited Drug Testing boasts numerous testing centers not only nationwide but also within Bodega Bay. With such an extensive network, individuals and employers can easily access testing services, ensuring efficient and fuss-free testing experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bodega Bay, CA
In Bodega Bay, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and private. From the initial ordering to the confidential delivery of results, every step prioritizes user privacy while maintaining simplicity, thus easing any concerns about confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bodega Bay, CA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive prices alongside quick processing times in Bodega Bay. Companies of all scales can benefit from cost-effective services without sacrificing fast results, enhancing value and satisfaction in their testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bodega Bay, CA
Hair follicle drug tests in Bodega Bay offer unmatched precision and quick turnaround. These tests not only detect a broad range of substances but ensure that results are accurate and reliable. They are highly effective, making them a preferred choice for precise substance use identification.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bodega Bay, CA
Employers in Bodega Bay benefit from conducting hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to zero-tolerance drug policies. This method reduces legal risks and fosters a safer working environment, keeping workplace standards intact and providing peace of mind.
