Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair, it offers an extended view of drug use history. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol consumption for up to around three months back. Collection is straightforward, alteration is quite challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the girth of a #2 pencil), and close to the scalp yields 100mg, the perfect quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional factors, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is unobtainable, the same quantity of body hair is acceptable. Our reference to head hair specifically indicates scalp hair. 'Body hair' covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Key stages to process a drug test result in the lab comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves initially entering a sample into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not captured by an electronic custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for drug abuse indication. It's cost-efficient for dismissing drug use in most samples, however, a positive screen must undergo confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
A presumptively positive sample during Screening will undergo additional preparation from the original specimen for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are drawn out from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), demonstrating the challenging nature of hair drug analysis.
Confirming any positive screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples indicating presumptive positivity undergo pre-confirmation washing when necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed as "hair follicle tests", the assessment focuses on the hair strand, not the sub-scalp follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Edgemoor, DE
Hair testing offers several advantages over traditional urine tests, particularly in its superior detection accuracy and reliability. In Edgemoor, DE, hair follicle tests are favored for their ability to identify drug use over a longer timeframe, providing a clearer picture than urine samples, which are more easily compromised.
Extended Detection Window in Edgemoor, DE
Hair follicle testing in Edgemoor, DE, offers a unique advantage by capturing drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days. This prolonged detection window allows employers to gauge a comprehensive history of an individual's substance use, offering insights traditional testing methods might miss.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Edgemoor, DE
One of the strengths of hair follicle tests conducted in Edgemoor, DE, is their resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are not easily adulterated, ensuring that the results are reliable and reflective of the individual's true drug history.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Edgemoor, DE
Navigating the process of drug testing is hassle-free in Edgemoor, DE, thanks to our widespread network of testing centers. Whether local or nationwide, our venues ensure easy and convenient access, streamlining the process for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Edgemoor, DE
The hair follicle testing procedure in Edgemoor, DE, is designed to be both simple and private. From ordering to receiving results, every step is carried out with confidentiality in mind, addressing any concerns about privacy while ensuring ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Edgemoor, DE
Offering competitive pricing, our hair follicle tests in Edgemoor, DE, deliver both affordability and efficiency, with quick turnaround times. This ensures companies of all sizes can benefit from excellent value without sacrificing peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Edgemoor, DE
When it comes to detecting substance use, hair follicle drug tests in Edgemoor, DE, stand out for their precision and swiftness. The meticulous process ensures high accuracy levels, enabling detailed detection of drug use. This method's reliability makes it a preferred choice for those who need quick and dependable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Edgemoor, DE
Employers in Edgemoor, DE, benefit from hair follicle testing as it helps uphold drug-free workplace policies. This testing method not only bolsters compliance but also mitigates legal risks, thereby enhancing the overall safety and well-being of the work environment.