Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers in the hair strand's fibers as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair provides approximately a three-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is easy, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample around 1.5 inches long containing about 200 strands of hair (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp gives 100mg of hair, which is the perfect sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn't an option, the same quantity of body hair is acceptable. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all alternate types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample initially enters a lab’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid evaluation for drugs of abuse. While Screening efficiently rules out drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for court validity. Any samples with a presumptive positive result in Screening demand a secondary confirmation.
If a sample records a presumptive positive during Screening, an additional portion of hair from the initial sample is prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as needed. The laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is thoroughly reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why does hair follicle testing trump urine tests in Boca Pointe, FL? The benefits lie in its superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests offer a much more extended detection window, allowing for a clearer picture of an individual's substance history. This advantage makes it the preferred choice among employers and professionals who require the most reliable drug testing method.
In Boca Pointe, FL, hair follicle testing boasts an extended detection window that spans up to 90 days. This long timeframe gives employers a comprehensive view of substance use habits, far surpassing the limited scope of urine tests. Such extended coverage empowers decision-makers with critical information about an individual's recent and long-term drug use patterns, allowing for informed hiring and disciplinary actions.
Hair follicle testing offers a tamper-resistant solution in Boca Pointe, FL. Unlike urine tests, which might be susceptible to adulteration, hair samples provide a reliable method for detecting substance use. The integrity of the sample is preserved from collection to analysis, ensuring trustworthy results. This method gives organizations assurance that the results obtained reflect accurate and honest substance use data.
Boca Pointe, FL offers convenient nationwide testing locations, ensuring accessibility for all. Our widespread network of testing centers allows for quick and hassle-free access to drug testing services. Whether local or in a different city, these centers guarantee prompt service, making the process smooth for individuals and employers alike. This ease of access enhances the testing experience by reducing travel and wait times.
The simple and confidential process in Boca Pointe, FL ensures peace of mind for clients during hair follicle testing. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure is designed with privacy in mind. Clients can expect a straightforward experience with clear instructions, preserving their anonymity and data security. This aspect of the process makes hair follicle testing accessible and worry-free for all parties involved.
With affordable pricing and fast turnaround in Boca Pointe, FL, hair follicle drug tests provide exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. By offering competitive pricing structures, companies can enjoy high-quality testing services without breaking the bank. The fast delivery of results ensures that businesses can make timely decisions, aiding in maintaining productivity and operational efficiency.
In Boca Pointe, FL, hair follicle drug tests are known for their fast and accurate results. With advanced technology, these tests ensure high precision in detecting substance use. The rapid turnaround time coupled with exceptional accuracy makes them a reliable choice for those who need quick results. Employers benefit from knowing the test results reflect true substance use, enhancing confidence in hiring decisions.
In Boca Pointe, FL, hair follicle testing grants compliance and peace of mind for employers. By adopting this robust testing method, companies ensure they meet drug-free workplace policies while mitigating legal risks. The assurance that employees adhere to policies and safety standards bolsters workplace security, reducing incidents related to drug use and enhancing overall organizational well-being.
