Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective mechanism for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and substance use by capturing biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to approximately three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, an ideal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, added components, and/or evaluations beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair may be obtained. Referring to head hair indicates scalp hair only. Body hair refers to all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four principal stages in a lab's procedure for processing a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the sample’s initial entry into the laboratory’s system. This process confirms that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry not included in the electronic chain of custody.
Screening allows for an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While being a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug usage in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in court. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening obligate further verification.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any screening positive is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptive positive undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning through to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the follicle found beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rathdrum, ID
Hair follicle tests provide a striking advantage over traditional urine tests through their superior detection accuracy and reliability. These tests are not only more difficult to evade but offer insights into a longer history of drug use. For those in Rathdrum, ID, this makes hair follicle testing a more dependable method.
Extended Detection Window in Rathdrum, ID
Hair follicle testing allows for the detection of drug use over a significantly extended period of up to 90 days. This gives a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, benefiting employers in Rathdrum, ID, who seek to understand an applicant or employee's long-term habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rathdrum, ID
The hair follicle test substantially reduces the likelihood of sample adulteration. The collected samples offer reliable and unquestionable results, providing peace of mind to stakeholders in Rathdrum, ID, due to its inherent resistance to tampering.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rathdrum, ID
Our extensive network of testing centers provides convenience with both nationwide and local access. Rathdrum, ID residents benefit from quick, easy, and hassle-free testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rathdrum, ID
Our process for obtaining, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. This ensures privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns of those in Rathdrum, ID seamlessly.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rathdrum, ID
We offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times for hair follicle testing, providing excellent value for companies across Rathdrum, ID. This ensures organizations of all sizes can access needed tests affordably and efficiently.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rathdrum, ID
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its precision and speed, making it a preferred choice in detecting substance use. With a focus on delivering accurate results, these tests ensure that the findings are highly reliable. The method evaluates use with remarkable accuracy, allowing for timely and dependable results in Rathdrum, ID.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rathdrum, ID
By using hair follicle testing, employers can ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies. This not only reduces legal risks but also bolsters workplace safety, offering peace of mind to Rathdrum, ID employers.
