Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. This method offers an extended history of alcohol and other substances by retaining biomarkers within the fibers of the hair's growth. Hair samples taken near the scalp can offer up to a three-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, it’s hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment with around 200 hairs (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For tests such as EtG, additional panels over ten, 150mg of hair is advised. The use of a jeweler's scale for weighing is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, the same quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "Body hair" describes any other hair type, such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the lab analysis of drug test results: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the initial sample is processed into the lab's database. This process involves verifying that the sample has been correctly sealed and shipped, assigning an LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completing any needed data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Though cost-efficient for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples with presumptive positives in Screening need subsequent confirmation.
If a sample results in a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is gathered from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening the most challenging to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are used to confirm any positive screenings. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as warranted. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the actual testing analyzes the hair strands rather than the follicles beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Estero, FL: Hair testing stands out with its superior accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine samples which can be compromised, hair tests offer a clear window into long-term substance use, thus vastly exceeding the detection capabilities of traditional urine tests, making them an invaluable tool for comprehensive screening.
Extended Detection Window in Estero, FL: Hair follicle testing's capability of identifying drug use over a span of up to 90 days provides employers a thorough view of an individual's substance use history. It extends beyond short-term tests to offer a detailed insight, proving crucial for a comprehensive assessment of one's lifestyle.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Estero, FL: Hair follicle tests stand as a substantial barrier against tampering, providing results that are both dependable and verifiable. This resistance to adulteration enhances their integrity and positions them as a trusted choice for those requiring unquestionable results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Estero, FL: Our extensive network of testing facilities offers hassle-free access, including local centers in Estero, FL. This nationwide reach ensures quick and seamless testing for everyone, eliminating the stress of finding a testing location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Estero, FL: Ordering, taking, and receiving results is straightforward and discreet. The process prioritizes user privacy, simplifying participation and maintaining confidentiality throughout, addressing all privacy concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Estero, FL: Our competitively priced services provide rapid results without compromising quality. This blend of affordability and speed offers remarkable value, ensuring companies of any size benefit from our testing efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Estero, FL: Hair follicle drug tests deliver swift and accurate outcomes, ensuring you get precise substance use data when needed most. Their remarkable ability to detect drugs efficiently makes them a preferred choice over other methods, allowing for accurate monitoring and informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Estero, FL: By integrating hair follicle testing, employers can uphold drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. This testing method ensures adherence to regulations, fostering a secure and compliant working atmosphere.
