Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers of growing hair strands trap biomarkers, providing a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug use. When cut close to the scalp, hair can reveal a history of up to three months regarding alcohol and other drugs. It is easy to collect hair, hard to tamper with, and convenient to send.
Collecting a 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides an ideal 100mg sample for both screening and confirmation. For instances requiring EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, it is suggested to obtain 150mg. Use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair cannot be collected, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used instead. It is important to note that head hair refers exclusively to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The critical steps in processing a drug test in the laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the initial step of incorporating a sample into a lab’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary step to detect the presence of drugs. Despite being a cost-effective method to eliminate drug usage in most cases, a positive screening result necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Presumptive positives in Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
In the event of a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair from the initial sample is utilized and prepared for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive outcome in screening is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing if necessary before confirmation. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to at times as "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the strand of hair as opposed to the underlying follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ashton, ID
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the superior detection accuracy is evident. Hair testing not only offers enhanced reliability but also a longer detection timeframe. This technique is integral for thorough substance use evaluation, minimizing loopholes in the testing process.
Extended Detection Window in Ashton, ID
One of the major advantages of hair follicle testing is its prolonged detection window, capable of revealing drug use for up to 90 days. This extended timeframe provides a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance history, which is critical for employers during the hiring process.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ashton, ID
Hair follicle tests are notable for their resistance to tampering. This method significantly curtails the potential for adulteration, offering results that stakeholders can depend upon with confidence. The integrity of this testing process is central to its acceptance.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ashton, ID
Our widespread network of testing centers, including those in Ashton, ID, ensures that access to hair follicle testing is both quick and hassle-free. These facilities are designed to meet the needs of individuals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ashton, ID
The streamlined procedure for hair follicle testing is both simple and confidential. Respecting privacy, the process ensures ease in ordering, administering, and obtaining results, making it an optimal choice for those concerned about discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ashton, ID
We cater to businesses of all sizes with our competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times. This commitment delivers excellent value, ensuring that timely and cost-effective testing solutions are always available.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ashton, ID
Hair follicle drug tests offer swift and precise results, ensuring high accuracy in detecting substance abuse. With their ability to consistently deliver reliable outcomes, they are a preferred choice in Ashton, ID. Individuals and employers can trust these tests to provide comprehensive insights into substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ashton, ID
Employers gain peace of mind using hair follicle tests to maintain workplace drug-free policies. This method enhances safety and reduces legal risks, ensuring conformity with regulations and fostering a secure work environment.