Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can offer a detailed account of long-term alcohol and drug use by encasing biomarkers within the strands of the hair as it grows. When taken from near the scalp, hair can reveal substance use for a period of approximately three months. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for shipping.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from nearest the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and verification. For EtG, specific tests, or for those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample is encouraged. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be substituted. The term "head hair" specifically refers to hair on the scalp, whereas "body hair" encompasses other varieties (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The core steps in the laboratory drug testing process include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the preliminary steps to integrate the sample into a lab’s system. This stage involves ensuring the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment to check for drugs. Screening serves as a cost-effective strategy to eliminate drug use for most samples, yet a positive outcome requires confirmation for legal validation. Any samples with a presumptive positive in the Screening phase necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen for the Extraction process. During this phase, drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations from hair than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug testing.
Confirmation for any initial positive is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Samples indicating possible positive results undergo a washing procedure prior to confirmation as applicable. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation complies with the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed as "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand, not the scalp hair follicle.
In Lexington, GA, hair follicle tests prevail over urine tests due to their superior accuracy and reliability. Unlike the traditional urine tests, hair tests are less invasive and offer a broader detection window, thereby providing a clearer insight into potential substance abuse. Its foolproof process ensures results that inspire confidence.
Hair follicle testing in Lexington, GA, stands out because of its extended detection window, reaching up to 90 days. This makes it an invaluable tool for employers keen on obtaining a comprehensive history of an individual's substance use, whether they are a potential hire or current employee.
In Lexington, GA, the hair follicle test is a game-changer for ensuring accuracy in drug testing. Its design significantly reduces the potential for sample tampering or adulteration, thus guaranteeing dependable results that withstand scrutiny. Employers and authorities gain a higher degree of confidence from its reliability.
The strategic nationwide and local locations of our testing centers in Lexington, GA, underscore the convenience and ease of access to hair follicle testing services. Our extensive network ensures that testing is quick, straightforward, and devoid of unnecessary complications for users.
In Lexington, GA, the process for hair follicle testing is both straightforward and confidential. From placing an order to taking the test and receiving results, every step is simplified, ensuring privacy and addressing any concerns users might have about confidentiality and ease of use.
Our hair follicle testing services in Lexington, GA, offer competitive pricing and a swift turnaround. These efficiencies provide substantial value and peace of mind for organizations of any scale, highlighting our commitment to affordability without sacrificing quality.
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests in Lexington, GA, set them apart. They distinguish themselves by offering highly accurate results, making them indispensable for verifying substance use. These tests streamlining the entire detection process, proving vital for employers seeking both fast and trustworthy outcomes.
Employers in Lexington, GA, leverage hair follicle testing to maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal risks and bolsters workplace safety, thereby instilling peace of mind. Businesses can ensure policy compliance, enhancing the company’s overall safety and security measures.
