Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for uncovering the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair, offering a detailed timeline of substance use. When taken near the scalp, it can present an approximately 3-month detection period for drugs and alcohol. Collecting hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient for mailing.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred quantity for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional requests, and/or tests surpassing 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Measurement should be performed using a jeweler’s scale. When scalp hair is unavailable, gather comparable body hair. Note that head hair means only scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other types (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal stages in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial stage of a sample entering the lab system. This consists of ensuring proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any further data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening denotes an initial brief examination for drugs of abuse. Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage for most samples, but positive results require confirmation for court admissibility. Any samples presumptively positive in Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original sample and set for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are removed from hair at much lower concentrations than through other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), distinguishing hair drug testing as the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as required. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is verified under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the test targets the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mendota, CA
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the former offers superior accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can detect a broad array of substances over a longer period, offering employers and individuals a thorough understanding of substance use history. This method stands out for its ability to capture a comprehensive picture that urine tests may miss.
Extended Detection Window in Mendota, CA
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to identify drug use up to 90 days prior, providing employers with an extensive insight into an individual's substance history. This extended detection window is invaluable for assessing long-term drug habits, which can be pivotal in making informed hiring or monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mendota, CA
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering, significantly reducing the risk of adulteration. This method provides robust and reliable results, making it an outstanding choice for organizations that prioritize integrity in their drug testing procedures.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mendota, CA
Our conveniently located testing centers across the nation, including in Mendota, CA, facilitate hassle-free access to testing services. Whether nearby or far, our extensive network ensures clients can easily reach a testing location and receive seamless and efficient services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mendota, CA
Our process for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and maintains confidentiality throughout. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize privacy and ease for all users, ensuring a stress-free experience that addresses client privacy while delivering timely results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mendota, CA
In Mendota, CA, our hair follicle drug tests are competitively priced and offer rapid turnaround times. This affordability coupled with efficiency provides excellent value for businesses of all sizes, ensuring peace of mind and budget-friendly solutions.
In Mendota, CA, hair follicle drug tests are distinguished by their precision and quick turnaround times. These tests are highly accurate, making them an ideal choice for detecting substance use among individuals. The reliability of hair testing ensures that results are dependable, providing clarity and certainty for both employers and individuals seeking evidence of drug use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mendota, CA
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies while mitigating legal risks. This testing method not only boosts workplace safety but also offers peace of mind, knowing your employee screenings align with regulatory standards.
