Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands hold a lengthy account of alcohol and drug usage by preserving biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. When collected close to the scalp, hair allows for up to an approximate 3-month window of detectability for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes a drug test result through four main steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is logged into the laboratory’s system. This step includes confirming the sample’s seal and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for substances of abuse. Screening is a cost-effective method to exclude drug use in most samples, but confirmatory testing is required for any positive screen to be valid in court. Samples yielding a presumptive positive during Screening require secondary confirmation.
When a sample is presumed positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the main specimen for further processing in the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted at a significantly lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a particularly challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The comprehensive laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.
Superior Detection and Accuracy is why hair follicle testing is preferred in Valley Ranch, CA. While traditional urine tests were once standard, hair testing provides a more reliable snapshot of substance use. It detects a wider range of substances, showcasing its unparalleled reliability and accuracy, giving employers and authorities more precise data.
Extended Detection Window in Valley Ranch, CA, positions hair follicle testing as a leader in drug detection. This method covers up to 90 days of substance use history, offering employers comprehensive insight into an individual's habits. Its extensive range far surpasses traditional testing methods, ensuring a rounded view of behavior patterns over time.
Sample Integrity and Security are central to hair follicle testing in Valley Ranch, CA. This technique greatly minimizes the risks of sample tampering, assuring stakeholders of the test's authentic and credible results. The secure nature of the testing process ensures that the results are unequivocally trusted and reliable.
Nationwide Accessibility and Convenience characterize our testing locations throughout Valley Ranch, CA. This network ensures quick, seamless, and easy access to drug testing services across the nation, prioritizing efficiency and customer convenience. Our extensive reach guarantees that testing is always within reach, no matter the location.
Effortless and Confidential Testing is guaranteed in Valley Ranch, CA. The process is straightforward and ensures privacy at every step, from ordering to obtaining results. Clients can trust the system to securely maintain confidentiality, addressing concerns and simplifying the testing experience.
Budget-Friendly Options and Rapid Results are at the forefront of our services in Valley Ranch, CA. Our competitively priced tests offer significant value, with swift turnaround times ensuring that companies of all sizes receive timely and cost-effective solutions, enhancing overall peace of mind and satisfaction.
Fast and Reliable Outcomes define the hair follicle drug tests offered in Valley Ranch, CA. These tests stand out due to their exceptional accuracy, swiftly confirming substance use without delay. Precision is key, ensuring a clear understanding of an individual's drug use history, thus providing timely results crucial to making informed decisions.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers in Valley Ranch, CA is achieved through hair follicle testing. This method upholds workplace drug policy adherence, minimizing the risk of legal complications while fostering a safe work environment. Employers benefit from enhanced security and peace of mind, knowing that their policies are well-supported.
