Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers as it continues to grow. When taken near the scalp, it offers a detection period of up to roughly three months for both alcohol and various drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and easily transportable.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with close to 200 hair strands (approximating the diameter of a #2 pencil) at the scalp end gives around 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both initial screenings and confirmations. For EtG, additional components, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is advised. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be taken. Note that head hair pertains to scalp hair while body hair includes all other forms (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Outline
The principal phases in the lab's drug test result process include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial sample processing into the lab’s database. It involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any required manual data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid evaluation for illicit substances. While Screening offers a cost-effective approach to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screen result must be substantiated to be recognized in legal settings. Samples that preliminarily test positive during Screening necessitate follow-up confirmation.
If a sample is initially positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original batch and prepped for Extraction. In this step, drugs are isolated from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening exceptionally challenging to execute.
Any positive screen findings are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples deemed presumptively positive undergo a washing process before confirmation if necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the whole laboratory pipeline is scrutinized under both the standards of CAP (College of American Pathologists) for Hair testing and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Challenges:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Westwood Lakes, FL
Hair follicle testing provides a superior alternative to urine tests, offering enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine methods, hair tests significantly extend the observable time for substance use, making them a valuable tool for oversight and compliance.
Extended Detection Window in Westwood Lakes, FL
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to detect drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This long detection window allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s drug use history, enhancing decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Westwood Lakes, FL
The integrity of hair follicle tests significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering or adulteration. This testing method offers organizations dependable and unquestionable results, securing the credibility of the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Westwood Lakes, FL
With our nationwide network of testing centers, accessing hair follicle testing services is both quick and convenient. Whether in Westwood Lakes or any other city, our facilities ensure individuals can easily undergo testing without hassles.
Simple, Confidential Process in Westwood Lakes, FL
Our testing process is designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind, allowing individuals to order, take, and receive results seamlessly. This approach emphasizes the privacy and ease of use every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Westwood Lakes, FL
Offering competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, our hair follicle tests represent excellent value. These aspects provide peace of mind and ensure quality service, accommodating businesses regardless of size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Westwood Lakes, FL
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and swiftness in substance use detection. The accuracy of these tests ensures that any trace of drugs is discovered with high dependability, providing both individuals and institutions confidence in the results obtained.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Westwood Lakes, FL
Hair follicle testing plays a crucial role in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. These tests provide an assurance of adherence to regulations, reduce legal risks, and foster safer working environments.
