Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. Hair obtained from near the scalp can offer a detection range of roughly up to 90 days for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the dimension of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and validation. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to measure the specimen with a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair not be present, a similar mass of body hair can be used. When stating head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key phases in the lab processing of a drug testing outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial processing of a specimen into the lab's system. This involves confirming the specimen was sealed and shipped appropriately, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry that is absent in the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid examination for drug misuse. While Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive screen requires validation to be permissible in court. Any samples that exhibit a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate a further affirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original sample and processed for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn out from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to execute.
Validation for any positive screening results is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory processing from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand and not on the follicle located under the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lemon Grove, CA
Hair follicle tests in Lemon Grove, CA, offer superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. The long detection window of hair tests allows for a comprehensive view of an individual's drug use over several months. This enhanced accuracy ensures a reliable and complete picture rather than capturing only recent use, making it a favored choice for thorough assessments.
Hair tests effectively overcome limitations found in urine testing by providing detailed insights into long-term substance use. In Lemon Grove, CA, the increased detection reliability of hair testing surpasses the temporary snapshot provided by urine tests, enhancing the ability to enforce zero-tolerance policies effectively.
Extended Detection Window in Lemon Grove, CA
Lemon Grove employers benefit from hair follicle testing due to its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This period allows for a detailed analysis of an individual's substance use history, offering insights into long-term behaviors that more transient testing methods can't provide, ensuring trust and safety in hiring decisions.
The prolonged detection capability of hair testing in Lemon Grove, CA, makes it an invaluable tool for employers seeking a comprehensive view of an employee's drug history. Unlike shorter-term tests, hair analysis uncovers consistent patterns of use, helping maintain a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lemon Grove, CA
Hair follicle testing in Lemon Grove, CA, drastically reduces the chances of tampering, ensuring credible results. The collectible nature of hair samples makes it practically impossible for individuals to alter or adulterate the sample, offering employers and authorities trustworthy substance use evaluations.
The design of hair follicle tests inherently guards against common tampering tactics seen in other drug test types. In Lemon Grove, CA, this method provides an irrefutable assessment of drug use, contributing to fair assessments that can be relied upon in crucial decision-making scenarios.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lemon Grove, CA
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to hair follicle testing with numerous testing centers across the nation and locally in Lemon Grove, CA. This network ensures that individuals and employers receive quick and straightforward access to our services, reducing the hassle typically associated with drug testing procedures.
With widespread availability, Lemon Grove, CA, residents benefit from our extensive network of testing locations. Quick and easy access ensures minimal disruption to daily routines, making hair follicle testing a practical option for individuals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lemon Grove, CA
In Lemon Grove, CA, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential, ensuring individuals can efficiently order, complete, and receive results. We prioritize privacy, assuring users that their information is securely handled throughout the process.
Our simple and private procedure in Lemon Grove, CA, removes complexities often associated with drug testing. From ordering to receiving results, we maintain confidentiality, addressing any privacy concerns that may arise, while effortlessly providing access to test outcomes.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lemon Grove, CA
Lemon Grove, CA, businesses benefit from our competitive pricing model and fast test results turnaround. This efficient approach offers excellent value to organizations of varying sizes, enabling them to manage substance screening without straining their budgets.
Our hair follicle testing service in Lemon Grove, CA, is designed to be both cost-effective and prompt, providing a swift turnaround that supports efficient workplace management. Offering top-notch value, companies can confidently rely on us for reliable drug testing at affordable rates.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lemon Grove, CA
In Lemon Grove, CA, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and efficiency. Recognized for their swift processing times, these tests deliver high accuracy by detecting even low levels of substances, ensuring individuals and employers receive reliable results quickly. When speed and precision are essential, hair testing is the optimal option.
Renowned for their unparalleled accuracy, hair follicle tests offer Lemon Grove professionals a dependable method to detect patterns of substance use. The precision of these tests minimizes false positives and negatives, providing a trustworthy assessment tool that supports informed decisions regarding an individual's substance use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lemon Grove, CA
Employers in Lemon Grove, CA, can rely on hair follicle testing to adhere to drug-free workplace policies. By reducing legal risks and ensuring policy enforcement, these tests offer peace of mind and contribute to a safer, more secure working environment.
Hair testing helps Lemon Grove employers ensure compliance, reducing potential litigation issues related to inadequate enforcement of drug policies. This contributes not only to peace of mind but also to maintaining a secure and productive workplace focused on employee safety.