Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair can offer an extended overview of drug and alcohol history by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Collected near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month history of alcohol and other drugs. It is easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands closest to the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, the preferred specimen for analysis. For EtG, add-ons, and/or panels exceeding 10, it is advisable to collect 150mg. Use a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement. When scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing laboratory process involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab’s system. Tasks include confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any non-digital data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a swift initial inspection for drugs of abuse. While Screening is economical and effectively eliminates drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court acceptance. Any samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Once a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs from hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug screening as the most challenging method to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening findings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptive positive are cleansed before confirmation, as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests," this procedure actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Capistrano Beach, CA
Hair testing offers distinct advantages over traditional urine tests. The enhanced detection accuracy makes it a preferred choice, identifying substances over extended durations. While urine tests are suitable for recent usage, hair tests provide an in-depth overview of historical use, making them indispensable for authorities requiring thorough drug-use profiles.
Extended Detection Window in Capistrano Beach, CA
The ability of hair follicle testing to trace drug use up to 90 days enhances its value for employers and authorities. By capturing a long-term profile of an individual's substance use, hair tests offer a comprehensive view that is vital in many evaluation scenarios. Employers benefit immensely by gaining insights into the behavioral patterns of potential hires or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Capistrano Beach, CA
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the chances of adulteration or tampering, unlike many other testing methods. The collection and testing processes are designed to be foolproof, offering results that withstand scrutiny. This robust testing approach ensures the integrity and authenticity of the sample and the results derived from it.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Capistrano Beach, CA
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide ensures convenient and stress-free testing access. With numerous sites available, including local Capistrano Beach centers, individuals and employers can easily schedule and complete assessments swiftly, without logistical hurdles or delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Capistrano Beach, CA
Our streamlined process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality, accommodating diverse privacy concerns. Participants can expect a seamless experience, from test initiation to results acquisition, all managed with the utmost discretion and ease.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Capistrano Beach, CA
Competitive pricing structures make hair follicle testing accessible for organizations of all sizes. Coupled with quick turnaround times, this testing option provides significant value, ensuring timely results without financial strain. Our commitment to affordability without compromising on quality is central to our service offering.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Capistrano Beach, CA
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and speed, providing rapid results with a high degree of accuracy. These tests excel in detecting a wide array of substances, making them an ideal choice for those seeking undeniable results. The meticulous approach to analyzing hair samples ensures that each test delivers reliable data regarding substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Capistrano Beach, CA
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with drug-free workplace policies, allowing employers to confidently adhere to regulatory compliance. This method not only enhances workplace safety but also mitigates legal exposure, providing reassurance that employees are upholding the standards expected within the workplace.
