Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Long Beach, CA

What it is, How it works

The use of hair testing has been recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of substance use through biomarkers embedded within the strands as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a roughly 90-day period for substances like alcohol or drugs. This method is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.

A sample of 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (approximately equivalent to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing. For EtG, additional analyses, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. In situations where scalp hair isn’t available, a similar quantity of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair pertain strictly to scalp hair, whereas body hair pertains to any other types (like facial or axillary hair).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four central phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the initial sample entry into a laboratory’s system. It includes verifying proper sealing and shipping, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody protocol.

Screening provides a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a confirmatory test is essential for any positive findings to be valid in legal contexts. Thus, any sample with a positive indication in Screening must undergo further Confirmation.

Should a sample show a positive result in the Screening phase, additional hair is retrieved from the original sample for Extraction. This involves removing drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than seen in other testing methods such as those using urine or oral fluids, making hair drug screening a particularly intricate process.

Any confirmed positive result from screening is verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples that presumptively test positive are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection span: Hair drug tests trace drug usage for up to 90 days, in contrast to urine tests with a more limited detection range.
• Challenging to manipulate: Tampering with a hair drug test is notably difficult, ensuring more reliable results.
• Historical insight: The test offers an overview of drug consumption patterns over time, extending beyond recent usage.

Limitations:

• Incapable of detecting recent intake: It takes about 5-7 days for substances to appear in hair samples.
• Expense: Hair drug testing typically incurs higher costs than alternative methods.
• Result variability: Drug metabolite concentration in hair can be influenced by factors like hair color and personal differences in hair growth.

Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Long Beach, CA. Hair tests provide undeniable accuracy over traditional urine tests.

• Unlike urine samples, hair tests are not influenced by temporary abstinence.
• This method offers a wider detection window, revealing patterns of substance use that urine tests may miss.
• Such precision ensures a more comprehensive evaluation of an individual's drug history.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window is a key feature of hair follicle drug tests in Long Beach, CA. This method captures substance use over an extended period of up to 90 days.

• This prolonged detection offers employers a thorough glimpse into an individual’s history, beyond what urine tests provide.
• An extended window aids businesses in making informed decisions regarding hiring and workforce management.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method is critical for reliable results in Long Beach, CA. Hair follicle tests notably minimize sample adulteration risks.

• The method's integrity ensures collected samples are secured from tampering.
• Such features guarantee that outcomes are both reliable and defensible when required.
• It is an ideal choice for scenarios demanding the highest confidence in results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations make drug testing hassle-free in Long Beach, CA. Our broad network of testing centers ensures localized access to services.

• This widespread availability simplifies the testing process for individuals and employers alike.
• Local centers in Long Beach provide quick, convenient options for many.
• Nationwide coverage means you're always within reach of our services whenever needed.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process offered in Long Beach, CA, ensures ease and privacy. Our streamlined approach to testing accommodates participants’ need for discretion.

• Ordering, taking, and receiving results has been simplified for minimal hassle.
• We address privacy concerns robustly, ensuring confidence and peace of mind throughout the entire process.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround highlight our competitive advantages in Long Beach, CA. Businesses can enjoy swift service without financial strain.

• Our reasonable pricing structure promotes value without compromising on the quality of testing.
• Quick turnaround times further enhance the testing experience, ensuring that companies benefit from timely, effective results.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results are essential in Long Beach, CA, for effective substance testing. Hair follicle tests are not only precise but also deliver speedier results compared to other methods.

• Their accuracy ensures individuals being tested — and those relying on results, such as employers — gain a definitive understanding of substance use.
• Reliability comes from their advanced detection, making them a trusted option for many.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers is vital in Long Beach, CA. Haar follicle testing aligns seamlessly with workplace drug-free mandates.

• It fortifies compliance efforts, decreasing potential legal repercussions.
• For employers, it assures maintained safety and adherence to established protocols within the business environment.
• This consistency aids in fostering a productive work atmosphere.

Drug Testing Near Long Beach, CA

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