Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair can disclose a prolonged account of alcohol and drug consumption by preserving biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. Hair, when sampled near the scalp, can reveal usage history extending to about a 3-month period for alcohol and other drugs. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising about 200 strands (roughly a #2 pencil's size) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is optimal. We advise weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, body hair in an equivalent quantity can be gathered. When we refer to head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other hair forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes a drug test result through four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning starts with the sample's initial processing into the lab's system, ensuring the sample's seal and shipment are intact, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a rapid initial review for drug misuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court eligibility. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive sample, additional hair is collected from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing particularly challenging.
Positive screen results undergo Confirmation via methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentative positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test itself analyzes the hair strand and not the hair follicle under the scalp
In Fulford, CO, hair follicle testing stands out when compared to typical urine tests. Superior in detection accuracy, hair tests offer an edge by identifying substance presence over extended periods. Their reliability surpasses traditional urine tests, providing organizations and individuals with a greater assurance of accuracy in drug and alcohol detection. This test is a powerful tool for those emphasizing thorough and dependable results.
In Fulford, CO, hair follicle testing offers a significant advantage with its extended detection window. This method can track drug use for up to 90 days, allowing employers to gain a broad understanding of an individual's substance history. By presenting a lengthy detection period, hair tests provide a comprehensive overview, aiding in making informed decisions regarding potential or current employees' backgrounds.
The hair follicle testing method, utilized in Fulford, CO, reduces the likelihood of sample tampering, ensuring credible results. Unlike other methods, this test is nearly impossible to adulterate, providing a higher level of security for test results. With its tamper-resistant nature, hair testing becomes an invaluable tool in safeguarding against fraudulent practices, ensuring the integrity of drug testing outcomes.
Residents of Fulford, CO, enjoy convenient access to testing services thanks to our nationwide network of centers. Whether local or traveling, finding a testing location is hassle-free, ensuring quick and easy service. This accessibility is designed to streamline the testing process, enhancing the ease of fulfilling drug testing requirements within a vast, reliable network.
In Fulford, CO, the hair follicle testing process is both simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, our protocol ensures user privacy and ease of use. Addressing privacy concerns, the discreet procedure reassures individuals, while intuitive steps simplify the entire testing process, creating a stress-free experience for all involved.
With competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, our hair follicle testing in Fulford, CO, offers excellent value. These affordable options cater to businesses of all sizes, providing economical solutions without compromising on speed or quality. Swift results and budget-friendly rates make this an attractive proposition for companies keen on maintaining peace of mind without hefty costs.
For those seeking fast and accurate detection in Fulford, CO, hair follicle drug tests excel in identifying substance use. These tests are known for their high precision in determining drug consumption, ensuring reliability. The testing process is swift and yields prompt outcomes, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing timely and dependable results over traditional methods.
For employers in Fulford, CO, hair follicle testing is a crucial component in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By implementing this testing method, employers can significantly lower legal risks and promote a safe working environment. This approach offers peace of mind, ensuring adherence to strict standards and elevating overall workplace security and stability.
