Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The detection of drug and alcohol use is effectively managed by hair testing, a method regarded as highly effective. Hair strands, as they grow, encapsulate biomarkers which give a prolonged history of substance use. By collecting hair near the scalp, this method can demonstrate a detection period extending up to around three months for alcohol and other drugs. The collection process is straightforward, the potential for tampering is limited, and the samples are conveniently shippable.
An optimal sample consists of 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands near the scalp, equivalent to roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil, providing around 100mg of hair. This is sufficient for both screening and confirmatory processes. Nevertheless, for tests like EtG or ones exceeding 10 panels, it's advisable to gather 150mg. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended for measuring the specimen's weight. In cases where scalp hair collection isn’t possible, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses other forms such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing drug test results encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
The Accessioning stage marks the sample's introduction into the lab's system, confirming the sample’s secure sealing and correct shipment. It also involves the allocation of a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) and the completion of any missing data not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
During the Screening process, an initial evaluation checks for drug presence. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach for ruling out drug usage in most samples, any positive finding must be validated for legal acceptance. Samples that yield a presumed positive in the Screening phase move on to a separate confirmation.
For samples testing presumptively positive at Screening, additional hair from the original sample is extracted for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other testing methods like urine or oral fluid, which is why hair drug testing is notably challenging to execute.
Positive results in the Screening are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing if required before confirmation. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subject to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair identification and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," these tests actually examine the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Benefits of Hair Follicle Testing over urine tests are evident in Waipio, HI. Hair tests offer superior accuracy and a longer detection window, providing more reliable results.
Urine tests may detect recent usage, but the extended detection period of hair tests identifies substance use history up to 90 days, ensuring comprehensive analysis.
Extended Detection Window of up to 90 days is a key advantage of hair follicle testing in Waipio, HI. This spans beyond the capabilities of traditional testing methods.
Hair analysis offers employers detailed insights into a candidate's drug use over a significant timeframe, which can be pivotal for employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method utilized in Waipio, HI, via hair follicle tests considerably minimizes the risk of sample adulteration.
The stringent collection process guarantees reliable and authentic results, ensuring the integrity of the testing method and providing peace of mind.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations, including in Waipio, HI, provide easy and hassle-free access to our hair testing services.
Accredited Drug Testing's extensive network guarantees swift and convenient options for all who need reliable testing services, simplifying the process.
Simple, Confidential Process ensures that ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests in Waipio, HI, are handled with utmost privacy.
Our procedures are designed to be user-friendly, addressing concerns about privacy and confidentiality, making testing a seamless experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Waipio, HI, affirm our commitment to providing cost-effective and timely hair follicle testing services.
Our competitive pricing and quick results deliver excellent value, offering peace of mind to employers, regardless of company size.
Hair follicle drug tests in Waipio, HI, ensure rapid and accurate detection of substance use. Their precision far exceeds traditional methods, making them a preferred choice for identifying long-term drug use.
This testing method provides detailed insights into substance history, crucial for employers seeking comprehensive drug use data. Its quick processing time further augments its reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for employers in Waipio, HI, are achieved through hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
This testing aids in minimizing legal risks and enhances safety within the workplace, fostering a secure and compliant environment for all employees.
