Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Wilmington, DE

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a valuable method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of drug and alcohol use by embedding biomarkers in the hair strand as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair offers a detection span of roughly three months for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, comparatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch section consisting of around 200 hair strands (similar to the width of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not obtainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be gathered. When we speak of head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four principal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first step in processing a sample within a lab’s system. It involves ensuring that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves an initial cursory check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to eliminate drug usage for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need further confirmation.

Should a sample be presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this step, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower levels than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid); hence, hair drug screening challenges methodological execution.

Confirmation of any positive screening results is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The entire lab procedure, spanning Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests offer a limited detection period.
• Resistance to tampering: Cheating is notably difficult with a hair drug test, enhancing result reliability.
• Provides usage history: It can show a timeline of drug use over an extended duration, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Ineffective for recent use: It requires about 5-7 days for drugs to become discernible in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing generally incurs higher costs compared to other methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth rate can influence drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle under the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why choose hair follicle testing over urine testing in Wilmington, DE? The evidence is clear. Hair testing offers superior detection and precision.

• Unlike urine tests, hair tests catch longer substance usage history.
• Employers are empowered with accurate data, minimizing drug abuse risks.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Wilmington, DE presents a unique advantage with its extended detection period. Covering up to 90 days, this method offers a comprehensive view of substance use.

• Employers benefit from a long-term perspective on employee habits.
• This window aids in identifying frequent or habitual substance use.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Wilmington, DE, ensure the reliability of your drug tests with hair follicle testing, an inherently tamper-resistant method. Reducing the risk of sample adulteration:

• Hair samples cannot be switched easily, unlike urine samples.
• This method provides an undeniable, trustworthy result.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Access convenient drug testing locations effortlessly in Wilmington, DE. Our service covers nationwide and local areas:

• Easy, quick access to testing centers.
• Streamlined processes ensure hassle-free experiences.

Simple, Confidential Process

Discover the simplicity of hair follicle testing in Wilmington, DE. Our process prioritizes confidentiality and ease:

• Streamlined ordering and swift results delivery.
• Protecting privacy aligns with offering top-notch service.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Wilmington, DE businesses gain affordability with our hair follicle testing solutions. Benefit from competitive pricing and quick results:

• Our cost-effective plans cater to companies of all sizes.
• Timely turnaround assures timely decisions and peace of mind.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Wilmington, DE boasts of rapid and accurate hair follicle drug testing services. The precision in identifying drug usage is unmatched, ensuring reliable results every time.

• These tests measure substances with an incredible level of accuracy.
• The quick response time of hair testing surpasses conventional methods.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Ensure your Wilmington, DE workplace remains legally compliant and secure. Hair follicle testing enhances compliance with drug-free policies.

• It mitigates legal risks through dependable testing methods.
• Upholding safety and productivity in your work environment is simplified.

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