Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the strands' structure. By sampling close to the scalp, hair can indicate usage of alcohol and drugs over a span of roughly three months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample for assessment and validation consists of a 1.5-inch section taken from about 200 hair strands (about the size of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp, equating to 100mg. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to gather 150mg of the hair sample. Applying a jeweler’s scale is suggested for specimen measurement. If scalp hair is missing, a comparable quantity of body hair may be utilized. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test outcome comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial process of incorporating a sample into a laboratory's system. This process includes confirming proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary inspection for drug use. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug consumption for the bulk of samples, a positive screening requires verification for legal admissibility. Samples that screen presumptively positive demand an additional confirmation process.
Should a sample presume positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the originating specimen for Extraction, where drugs are drawn from hair at substantially lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening notably challenging.
Verification of any positive screening result occurs through methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples presumed positive undergo washing before Confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory progression from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests," the test itself examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Highland Park, FL
Hair follicle tests offer notable advantages over traditional urine tests. These tests provide superior detection accuracy and are regarded as more reliable for identifying substance use. Employers in Highland Park prefer them due to their extended detection window and the difficulty in manipulating results.
Extended Detection Window in Highland Park, FL
Hair follicle testing boasts an impressive detection period of up to 90 days, granting businesses a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history in Highland Park. This extensive window aids employers in making informed decisions based on historic substance use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Highland Park, FL
The reliability of hair follicle tests stems from their resistance to tampering. In Highland Park, these tests significantly minimize the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring unquestionable and reliable results that employers can trust.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Highland Park, FL
Accredited Drug Testing offers nationwide convenience with testing centers across Highland Park and beyond. This ensures a quick, easy, and hassle-free testing experience, allowing individuals and businesses to access services effortlessly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Highland Park, FL
The hair follicle testing process in Highland Park is simple and ensures confidentiality. From ordering the test to providing samples and receiving results, every step prioritizes privacy, easing any concerns about discretion and accessibility.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Highland Park, FL
Our hair follicle tests offer competitive pricing and a swift turnaround in Highland Park. This combination provides great value for companies of all sizes, ensuring they receive fast results without exceeding budget constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Highland Park, FL
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and speed in Highland Park. The ability to detect substance use with high accuracy sets these tests apart, ensuring that results are reliable and quickly provided. This makes them a preferred method for employers needing fast and accurate testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Highland Park, FL
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing as it guarantees compliance with workplace drug-free policies. In Highland Park, this method reduces legal risks, enhances safety, and provides peace of mind through accurate testing procedures.