Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug use. It offers a lengthy historical record of substances due to the capture of biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When hair is retrieved near the scalp, it can show a detection period of up to about 90 days for substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and is convenient for shipping.
A sample of approximately 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (nearly equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) located closest to the scalp provides about 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for testing and verifications. For tests exceeding 10 panels or involving EtG, or additional tests, 150mg of hair is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing. Should scalp hair be missing, a similar quantity of body hair may be taken. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" covers all other hair categories (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The lab process for drug test results involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is about the initial processing of a test sample within a lab’s system. This step checks the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills out any other data entry, barring electronic chain of custody systems.
Screening is a fast preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples; however, results showing drug presence need verification to be valid legally. Samples with a presumptive positive indication from Screening require further confirmation.
Upon receiving a presumptive positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are separated from hair at notably lower concentrations than in methods like urine or oral fluid tests, which is why hair drug analysis is the most challenging approach to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive findings in screening utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples with presumptive positive results are cleaned prior to confirmation when necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the skin.
Hair follicle tests in Patterson, ID are superior to urine tests due to their enhanced detection capabilities and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which are limited to shorter detection windows, hair testing covers a broader timeline, ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of substance use history. This advanced method delivers meticulous accuracy, outshining traditional practices.
Hair follicle testing in Patterson, ID affords a prolonged detection window, effectively tracing drug use for up to 90 days. For employers, this provides an extensive perspective on a candidate or employee's substance use, offering a detailed evaluation beyond the scope of shorter-term tests. It's a strategic tool for informed decision-making.
In Patterson, ID, hair follicle testing emerges as a robust solution against sample tampering. The integrity of these tests is unrivaled, significantly diminishing the likelihood of manipulation. This method produces reliable, unquestionable results, making it a preferred choice among establishments requiring dependable testing outcomes.
Offering convenience to Patterson, ID and across the nation, our testing centers are readily available for service. Clients benefit from straightforward, hassle-free access to testing, ensuring a smooth experience. Our widespread locations simplify the process, contributing to a seamless testing journey for all involved.
In Patterson, ID, the process for hair follicle testing is both simple and confidential. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every step ensures privacy and ease of use. This approach caters to individuals prioritizing discretion, offering a straightforward experience free from complexities.
Affordable pricing and swift turnaround times define our services in Patterson, ID. These competitive structures deliver excellent value, supporting businesses of all sizes. Clients can expect prompt results without sacrificing quality, experiencing efficient services tailored to their fiscal needs.
In Patterson, ID, hair follicle testing delivers fast, accurate, and reliable results. The precision of these tests ensures that substance use is detected with exceptional accuracy, providing valuable insights for stakeholders. This method avoids the common pitfalls associated with alternative testing approaches, offering a high level of trustworthiness in outcomes.
Employers in Patterson, ID gain assurance and compliance with workplace drug-free policies through hair follicle testing. This approach ensures adherence to legal standards, mitigates risks, and actively fosters a safer work environment. It's a strategic measure for maintaining peace of mind and regulatory compliance.
