Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term evidence of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer up to a three-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. The collection of hair is easy, relatively hard to tamper with, and straightforward to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately as thick as a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation testing. For EtG, additional testing, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample is recommended. If scalp hair is absent, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair refers solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test result laboratory processing comprises the key steps of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab system. This process involves confirming that the sample was appropriately sealed and transported, issuing a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing additional data entry if not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid evaluation for substances of misuse. It provides an affordable option to dismiss drug use for most samples, yet a positive screen necessitates validation to be legally recognized. Any samples testing presumptive positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
Should a sample exhibit presumptive positivity during Screening, more hair is derived from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower levels compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug screening as the most challenging methodology to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and also its accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often termed "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Alpine, CO
Hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over urine testing, primarily in its superior detection accuracy. While traditional urine tests are effective, hair tests cover a broader window of drug detection.
In Alpine, hair testing provides a more reliable and tamper-proof method compared to urine tests, making it ideal for employers and legal entities seeking comprehensive insights.
Extended Detection Window in Alpine, CO
Hair follicle testing is acclaimed for its ability to detect substance use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This expansive window allows employers to gain a detailed view of the applicant or employee's past behavior.
With such a prolonged period of detection, businesses in Alpine can make informed decisions, focusing on long-term patterns of substance use rather than recent activity free of substances.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Alpine, CO
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the likelihood of sample tampering, ensuring trustworthy results. The robust nature of this testing technique is designed to resist alteration or contamination.
This method's enhanced security in Alpine provides peace of mind to employers, ensuring that results truly reflect the substance use history of the individual being tested.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Alpine, CO
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures that residents of Alpine can easily access our services. With nationwide coverage, testing becomes a seamless experience for all users.
Local facilities in Alpine minimize the hassle of long commutes, facilitating a more efficient process from testing to receiving results.
Simple, Confidential Process in Alpine, CO
The process of ordering, undergoing, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests is both straightforward and confidential. This simplicity addresses privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use.
In Alpine, this method supports individuals' needs for discretion without compromising on the accuracy and quality of the test.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Alpine, CO
We pride ourselves on competitive pricing structures that do not compromise on quality, offering remarkable value for businesses of every size.
Fast turnaround times in Alpine ensure that clients receive results swiftly, maintaining the balance between cost and efficiency for optimal satisfaction.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Alpine, CO
Hair follicle drug tests stand out in offering not only precise but rapid results in Alpine. This precision ensures detection of substance use with remarkable accuracy, making them a favored choice for those prioritizing reliability.
The hair follicle method allows users to receive results more promptly compared to traditional methods. This quick turnaround enhances decision-making processes significantly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Alpine, CO
Employers opting for hair follicle testing ensure they're aligning with stringent workplace drug-free policies. This compliance mitigates legal risks and fosters a secure, productive environment.
Hair testing reinforces a company's commitment to maintaining a safe workplace, safeguarding both employees and organizational interests efficiently.
