Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair screenings have gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can preserve a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drug intake by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When cut near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month period for detecting alcohol and other substances. The collection process is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with about 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken from the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar volume of body hair may be used. References to head hair specifically pertain to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses any other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test result processing within a laboratory comprises Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning starts with processing the sample into the laboratory’s system. This step ensures that the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any missing data not provided by an electronic custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary check for drug presence. Although it’s a cost-efficient way to eliminate drug usage on most samples, a positive result from Screening needs confirmation before being legal evidence. Any samples deemed presumptively positive require a subsequent confirmation.
Presumptively positive samples in the Screening phase undergo further hair extraction from the initial sample which is then prepared for Extraction. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at much lower levels compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive Screening results is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples found presumptive positive are cleaned as necessary before confirmation. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed by both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Important: Although frequently named "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
In Bret Harte, CA, hair follicle testing offers several advantages over traditional urine tests. Superior accuracy in substance detection gives it a distinct edge, including a longer detection period up to 90 days. This method provides a more reliable picture of an individual's history compared to the limitations of urine testing, which is more evasive and has a narrower window.
Hair follicle drug testing in Bret Harte, CA, boasts a substantial extended detection window. This prolonged period, reaching up to 90 days, empowers employers with an in-depth understanding of an individual's substance history. Unlike shorter-term tests, this method presents a full spectrum review, aiding informed hiring and management decisions.
In Bret Harte, CA, hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant alternative, reducing potential for sample adulteration. These tests ensure integrity and credibility, delivering trusted results. By maintaining stringent collection protocols, the reliability and authenticity of the results back workplace policies effectively against fraudulent attempts.
Bret Harte, CA, benefits from convenient testing locations ensuring hassle-free access to services. With nationwide centers offering quick and simple processes, individuals and employers can enjoy seamless testing experiences, amplifying convenience and accessibility across multiple urban sites.
The process in Bret Harte, CA, for hair follicle testing is simple and confidential. Emphasizing privacy and ease, it simplifies ordering, testing, and receiving results. Clients experience a streamlined procedure, addressing concerns about confidentiality and discretion effortlessly.
With affordable pricing in Bret Harte, CA, hair follicle testing is combined with fast turnaround times. This ensures excellent value for companies, regardless of size. Competitive pricing paired with efficiency offers peace of mind, delivering reliable services at significant savings while ensuring swift results.
In Bret Harte, CA, hair follicle drug tests yield fast and accurate outcomes. Their precision in detecting substance use surpasses other methods, highlighting the reliability employers can trust. Turnaround times are quick, providing stakeholders with timely updates on test results, thus ensuring efficient decision-making processes.
In Bret Harte, CA, using hair follicle testing supports compliance with drug-free workplace policies. Mitigating legal risks while boosting safety, these tests serve as a benchmark for employers. They help maintain corporate standards and natural workplace harmony, contributing significantly to a peaceful work environment.
