Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair retains a long-term record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within its fibers. Collected near the scalp, hair captures a detection range of up to about 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair sample collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch strand sample consisting of around 200 hairs (approximating a #2 pencil's size) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirming. For EtG assessments, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is preferred. We advise measuring the weight of the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair can't be collected, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers solely to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for drug test result processing comprises four pivotal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample's integration into the laboratory system is managed. This phase involves ensuring the sample’s proper sealing and shipping, assigning a distinct LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody framework.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid check for abuse drugs. While being a cost-efficient screening approach for ruling out drug use in most samples, a court-admissible outcome necessitates confirming positive screens. Samples indicating presumptive positivity in Screening require further Confirmation.
For samples marked presumptively positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is collected from the original specimen for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from the hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening result gets carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before Confirmation, as needed. The process — from Accessioning to Confirmation — is validated according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," this test evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Sweetwater, FL, hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing due to its superior detection capabilities. Hair tests offer more reliable and accurate results, making it a favored choice among employers and legal entities. Compared to traditional urine tests, hair testing provides a broader detection window, effectively identifying drug use over an extended period, and reducing the likelihood of missed substance use.
Hair follicle testing in Sweetwater, FL, provides an extensive detection window, revealing drug use patterns up to 90 days prior. This long-term detection period offers employers a comprehensive view of a candidate's or employee's substance history, facilitating informed hiring or retention decisions. Such insights can be crucial in maintaining a safe and productive work environment.
In Sweetwater, FL, hair follicle tests are a tamper-resistant option for drug detection. This method significantly reduces sample adulteration risks, ensuring reliable and indisputable results. The integrity of hair samples makes this testing approach superior to other methods, providing confidence in the accuracy of the findings, and maintaining the trustworthiness of the process.
Testing convenience is paramount in Sweetwater, FL, with our widespread, nationwide facilities. Our testing centers offer quick, hassle-free access, making drug testing services easily reachable. This extensive network of locations ensures efficient service delivery, reducing wait times and facilitating the testing process, which caters to both local and distant clients.
In Sweetwater, FL, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. From the order placement to receiving results, each step is designed to protect privacy and ensure ease of use. Individuals can trust that their information remains secure, while enjoying a seamless experience that respects their personal and professional boundaries.
Sweetwater, FL, benefits from affordable pricing and quick turnaround times for hair follicle testing. Our competitive pricing structures provide excellent value, especially for companies of varying sizes. The swift processing ensures that clients receive timely results, making it a cost-effective solution that meets both financial and operational needs.
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests in Sweetwater, FL, stand out, offering highly accurate results. This method ensures quick detection of substances, making it a reliable choice for those seeking fast and conclusive outcomes. The efficiency of hair testing means less time spent waiting for results, providing peace of mind for both individuals and employers.
Employers in Sweetwater, FL, find peace of mind and compliance assurance with hair follicle testing. By adhering to drug-free workplace policies, businesses can mitigate legal risks and enhance overall safety. This method of testing supports a drug-free environment, providing a sense of security and stability for employees and employers alike.
