Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drug exposure by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the continuously growing hair strand. When obtained near the scalp, it can offer roughly a three-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is preferable. It is advisable to weigh the specimen on a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair cannot be acquired, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. References to head hair pertain exclusively to the scalp, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample’s initial integration into a lab’s system. This phase ensures that the sample was accurately sealed and dispatched, a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and any data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system is completed.
Screening involves a preliminary, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to exclude drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive screen must be validated to be legally admissible. Any samples that show presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample presents as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the primary specimen and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing as needed prior to confirmation. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the evaluation focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Key Biscayne, FL, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests due to its enhanced accuracy and reliability. Hair tests detect drug use over an extended period, whereas urine tests are limited in time. This attribute makes hair testing a superior choice for those seeking comprehensive and trustworthy results.
Employers in Key Biscayne, FL value the extended detection window of hair follicle testing. Offering a look-back period of up to 90 days, this method provides a detailed history of drug use, surpassing the limited snapshot provided by urine tests. This ensures a thorough assessment of an individual's substance use.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests is highly beneficial in Key Biscayne, FL. This method dramatically lowers the chances of sample manipulation, guaranteeing authentic results. With such a secure testing approach, organizations can trust in the test's integrity and conclusive findings.
Accredited Drug Testing ensures convenient access for Key Biscayne, FL residents through nationwide centers. Offering local facilities, clients benefit from easy and stress-free testing experiences, without the hassle of traveling long distances to get their hair follicle test completed with efficiency and comfort.
In Key Biscayne, FL, Accredited Drug Testing simplifies the drug testing process. From ordering to testing and receiving results, the system is designed for confidentiality and ease. Individuals can rest assured of privacy while enjoying a straightforward procedure that respects their needs every step of the way.
Accredited Drug Testing in Key Biscayne, FL stands out with its affordable pricing and fast turnaround times. The competitive pricing, combined with prompt results, delivers exceptional value, catering to companies of varying sizes looking for effective and efficient drug testing solutions.
Hair follicle drug testing in Key Biscayne, FL is renowned for its speed and precision. Offering swift results, these tests boast high accuracy levels, ensuring reliable detection of substance use. This efficiency makes hair testing a preferred choice for both individuals and organizations keen on quick yet thorough results.
For employers in Key Biscayne, FL, hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and enhancing safety. The security of meeting standards provides employers with peace of mind, knowing that their drug testing policy is both robust and reliable.
