Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a potent method for detecting alcohol and drug consumption. The biological markers are preserved within the fibers of the hair as it grows, offering a long-term usage history of substances. When collected near the scalp, hair samples can reveal evidence of drug and alcohol use for up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, poses challenges in terms of tampering, and is convenient to ship.
A sample of hair measuring 1.5 inches and containing approximately 200 strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is suggested. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be used. When we mention head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The main stages in processing a lab-based drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where the sample is entered into the laboratory's system. This step involves validating that the sample has been sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and carrying out data entry tasks that are not automated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary inspection for substances of abuse. This cost-efficient process can rule out drug presence in most samples, but a positive screen must be confirmed for judicial acceptability. Presumptive positives from Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample indicate presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), a complexity that makes hair drug testing uniquely challenging.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are used for the Confirmation of any screening positives. All samples that are presumptive positive undergo necessary cleansing ahead of confirmation. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny in alignment with the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being labeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Lawtey, FL, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine tests primarily due to its superior detection capabilities. Hair tests offer improved accuracy and reliability, making them an excellent choice for those looking to ensure higher standards of testing.
With an extended detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Lawtey, FL, provides employers a thorough overview of an individual's drug history. This period enables a deeper insight into long-term substance usage patterns.
The integrity of hair follicle tests in Lawtey, FL, is unmatched in reducing the likelihood of sample adulteration. These tests guarantee that results remain reliable and beyond reproach, providing true assurances against tampering.
The availability of nationwide and local testing centers in Lawtey, FL, makes drug testing incredibly straightforward and accessible. Convenience is paramount, ensuring that individuals can quickly attend testing without hassle.
Ordering and completing a hair follicle test in Lawtey, FL, is a simple and private process. Confidentiality concerns are addressed efficiently, ensuring a user-friendly experience from initial contact to results.
Competitive pricing complements rapid turnaround times for drug testing in Lawtey, FL. Businesses of any size can enjoy cost-effective solutions alongside fast results, adding substantial value and reassurance.
The speed and precision of hair follicle drug tests in Lawtey, FL, make them a preferred choice for accurate drug detection. Hair testing not only quickly identifies substance use but also ensures high levels of accuracy, presenting a reliable testing method.
In Lawtey, FL, adopting hair follicle testing supports stringent workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal liabilities and promoting overall safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their compliance is maintained effortlessly.
