Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recently, hair testing has become recognized as an effective method for detecting the consumption of drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a long-term record of alcohol and drug exposure by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window for alcohol and drugs extending up to around 3 months. Gathering hair samples is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. It is advised to weigh the hair sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be used. The term "head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing involved in producing a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the preliminary processing of a sample into the laboratory's system, ensuring the sample was appropriately sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a quick initial check for illicit drug usage. While Screening offers a cost-effective means to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive Screening result must be confirmed to be valid in legal proceedings. Presumptively positive samples identified during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
In instances where a sample tests positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial collection and prepared for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening is regarded as the most challenging method to execute.
Confirming any positive Screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all presumptively positive samples are washed if needed. Every aspect of the laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized in line with both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Round Valley, CA offers superior detection abilities when compared to traditional urine tests. Unlike urine samples, which detect drug use within a few recent days, hair testing can reveal substance history over a longer timeframe, offering more comprehensive insights. This factor makes hair testing an evident choice for many, providing clarity and accuracy in results.
Employers in Round Valley, CA value hair follicle tests for their extended detection window of up to 90 days. This remarkable timeframe offers a detailed overview of an individual's drug use history. Such tests provide peace of mind by ensuring all substance use is accounted for, from sporadic users to more consistent usage, helping to make informed employment decisions.
Hair follicle testing in Round Valley, CA is lauded for its tamper-resistant nature, significantly minimizing potential sample adulteration. The integrity of the test ensures it delivers reliable and unquestionable results, holding up under scrutiny. This robustness makes them ideal for use where verification of substance use is essential, fortifying their trustworthiness in various settings.
With our extensive network of testing centers spread nationwide and in Round Valley, CA, we offer convenient locations for all testing needs. These centers provide rapid and accessible services, removing the hassle from the process and ensuring that individuals can complete testing swiftly and efficiently.
Our testing process in Round Valley, CA is designed to be simple and confidential, from ordering to collecting and viewing results. Respecting privacy is a priority, with stringent protocols securing data at all phases. The ease of use ensures seamless handling, alleviating worries and facilitating a stress-free experience for individuals and companies alike.
In Round Valley, CA, our testing solutions offer both affordable pricing and swift turnaround times. This dual advantage presents significant value to businesses, big or small, ensuring they receive timely results without compromising on cost or quality. Such an offer underscores our commitment to providing economical yet reliable drug testing services.
Hair follicle drug testing in Round Valley, CA is known for its speed and accuracy, providing dependable results quickly. The precision of these tests allows for the detection of various substances effectively, ensuring confidence in the data obtained. Laboratory analysis procedures guarantee that the outcomes are not only fast but meticulously scrutinized, enhancing the reliability for both individuals and organizations.
Compliance and peace of mind come hand in hand with hair follicle testing for employers in Round Valley, CA. By adopting this testing method, companies align with drug-free workplace policies while mitigating legal risks. This reduces potential liabilities and fosters a safer working environment, reflecting a commitment to high ethical standards and safety guidelines.
