Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as an effective instrument for determining drug and alcohol consumption. The strands of hair encapsulate markers over time, offering a prolonged record of substance use. When hair is harvested near the scalp, it can reveal a detection timeframe of nearly three months for substances like alcohol. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipment.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil), and located nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair which is optimal for analysis and verification. For elevated tests such as EtG or beyond 10 panels, it's advisable to utilize 150mg of hair. We suggest weighing the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is insufficient, a comparable quantity of body hair may be harvested. The term head hair implies scalp hair alone, whereas body hair encompasses additional types of hair (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
The core phases in laboratory analysis of a drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the primary phase of integrating a specimen into the lab’s system. This step ensures proper sealing and shipment of the sample, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes supplemental data input absent in an electronic chain of custody framework.
Screening entails an initial swift examination for illicit substances. Even though Screening provides a cost-efficient technique to dismiss drug usage for most samples, a positive outcome in this stage necessitates confirmation to hold validity in legal proceedings. Specimens offering presumptive positive results in Screening mandate subsequent confirmation.
When a specimen is presumptive positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the primary sample and prepped for Extraction. Drugs are then separated from hair in concentrations lower than in other methods (like urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing poses elevated challenges compared to other methods.
Positive screenings undergo Validation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples yielding presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation, if necessary. The exhaustive lab protocol from Accessioning to Validation is overseen under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair directives alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the strand itself, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Elwood, IL
Choosing hair follicle drug testing over urine analyses offers multiple benefits. More traditional urine tests often miss drug use, while hair tests provide superior accuracy in detection. This method ensures reliable results, giving companies in Elwood, IL, the assurance of more thorough insights into substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Elwood, IL
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive window for drug use detection, typically covering up to 90 days. This provides employers with a detailed examination of an applicant's or employee's substance habits. The prolonged detection period ensures a more comprehensive view, aiding in informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Elwood, IL
Reducing the risk of sample tampering is a standout benefit of hair follicle testing. Unlike some other methods, hair tests are more resistant to adulteration, ensuring the integrity of results. This reliability makes hair testing a steadfast choice for obtaining indisputable outcomes in Elwood.
Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations in Elwood, IL
Our nationwide testing network, including locations in Elwood, ensures easy and accessible testing services. With minimal hassle and efficient procedures, clients can benefit from our quick service, ensuring convenience and ease, regardless of their location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Elwood, IL
Our hair follicle testing process prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to protect privacy and ensure ease of use. Clients can be confident that their information remains secure and the process remains straightforward.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Elwood, IL
Offering competitive pricing and rapid result turnover, our services provide significant value. Companies of any size can benefit from cost-effective solutions, paired with the confidence of fast, reliable results. This combination ensures peace of mind and effective resource allocation.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Elwood, IL
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and speedy results. Their high level of accuracy ensures substance use is detected accurately, outperforming other methods. The advanced testing process gives a reliable and swift insight, making sure both individuals and companies get trustworthy data without delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Elwood, IL
Employers in Elwood achieve peace of mind using hair follicle testing to uphold drug-free policies. Ensuring compliance reduces legal liabilities and boosts workplace safety. Adopting this robust method underscores a company's commitment to a safer, healthier working environment.
