Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a robust means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers, creating a comprehensive history of drug use. When hair is cut near the scalp, it can reveal substance usage within a window of roughly three months. Collection is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and transportation is uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, optional components, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for measurement is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a proportional quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four critical stages in processing a drug test in the lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves incorporating a sample into the laboratory’s processes. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and delivered, generates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses additional data entry requirements not already provided by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides an initial assessment for substances of misuse. As an economical approach, Screening helps dismiss drug presence in most samples, but any positive findings require confirmation for legal acceptability. Presumptively positive samples from Screening necessitate follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the sample and prepared for further analysis. Drugs are extracted from hair at notably lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), presenting a greater challenge in execution for hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening is pursued using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, any presumptively positive samples undergo washing as needed. The lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Constraints:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the examination pertains to the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Los Serranos, CA
In Los Serranos, CA, the benefits of hair testing surpass traditional urine tests due to superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a more extensive detection window, revealing substance use patterns that urine tests cannot. This makes hair testing an excellent option for those seeking a dependable approach.
Extended Detection Window in Los Serranos, CA
With the ability to identify drug use up to 90 days prior, hair follicle testing provides employers in Los Serranos an in-depth view of an individual's substance history. This extended window aids organizations in making informed decisions regarding applicants and employees by revealing sustained patterns of use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Los Serranos, CA
Hair follicle testing considerably reduces the chances of sample tampering, ensuring that results remain trustworthy and beyond question. This level of reliability is invaluable in Los Serranos, CA, instilling confidence in the testing process with its robust, tamper-resistant methodology.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Los Serranos, CA
Our nationwide testing centers, including those in Los Serranos, CA, allow for swift and accessible testing services. This convenience ensures that clients can access testing without hassle, promoting efficiency and ease for all users.
Simple, Confidential Process in Los Serranos, CA
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results in Los Serranos, CA is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. This addresses user concerns regarding privacy and assures them of an easy-to-navigate testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Los Serranos, CA
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times present excellent value for businesses throughout Los Serranos, CA, regardless of size. By offering such efficiency, we provide peace of mind and financial prudence for company operations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Los Serranos, CA
Hair follicle tests stand out for their speed and precision in detecting substance use. They provide high accuracy results, establishing themselves as a preferred choice in Los Serranos, CA. This accuracy ensures reliable detection, making them a critical tool for substance monitoring.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Los Serranos, CA
Employing hair follicle testing fosters compliance with drug-free workplace policies, diminishing legal risks and boosting workplace safety in Los Serranos, CA. Employers gain peace of mind knowing they are using a testing method that upholds integrity and effectiveness.