Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Marion, IL

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol intake. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug consumption by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair offers approximately a 3-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect hair, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to ship.

A 1.5-inch sample containing roughly 200 strands of hair (the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimum sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The process for laboratory handling of a drug test outcome involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning refers to the first step of processing a sample within a lab's system. This step includes confirming that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a quick initial test for drug abuse detection. Although Screening is an economical way to rule out drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be followed by a confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples that are presumptively positive in Screening need a secondary confirmation.

If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from the hair at lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening challenging to perform.

The confirmation of a positive screening result is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a necessary pre-confirmation wash. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Long detection window: Hair drug tests can indicate drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests, which offer a shorter window.
• Difficulty to cheat: Hair drug tests are tough to manipulate, leading to more reliable results.
• Provides historical data: Hair tests furnish a record of drug use over time, not just recent instances.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect recent use: It takes around 5-7 days for drugs to appear in hair.
• Cost: Hair drug testing methods are generally costlier than other options.
• Variations in results: Differences in hair color and individual hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: The test frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests" actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing stands out against urine tests in Marion, IL, by offering outstanding detection precision and dependability. This technique is highly effective, showcasing superior accuracy in identifying long-term substance use compared to more conventional urine tests.

The method is especially valued by organizations that adopt strict no-drug policies, appreciating the reliability and credibility hair testing offers over urine testing.

Extended Detection Window

In Marion, IL, hair follicle testing's key advantage is its extended detection period. Capable of identifying drug use from up to 90 days back, this test provides employers with a detailed view of an employee's or candidate's substance use history, thus aiding in informed decision-making.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Minimizing the risk of sample tampering, hair follicle testing is a reliable method available in Marion, IL. Unlike other testing methods, hair samples are almost impossible to adulterate, ensuring credible results and upholding the integrity of the drug testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Find convenience with our widespread testing facilities, including those in Marion, IL. Our nationwide and local centers guarantee effortless access to testing services, simplifying the process and ensuring hassle-free testing experiences for all.

Simple, Confidential Process

Experience the simplicity and confidentiality of hair follicle testing in Marion, IL. The process for scheduling, conducting, and receiving results is straightforward and maintains privacy, answering any concerns about security and ease of usage.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Marion, IL boasts affordable hair follicle testing with fast turnaround times. Businesses of all sizes gain exceptional value, benefiting from competitive pricing and swift results, which provide peace of mind.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Marion, IL, hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and speed. Designed to deliver fast, accurate, and reliable results, these tests ensure high accuracy in identifying drug use. This assures employers and individuals of clear and dependable outcomes.
Employers seeking quick solutions find hair testing an ideal match due to its efficiency.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Marion, IL, achieve peace of mind with hair follicle testing, maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method helps in reducing legal liabilities while ensuring a safer work environment through its rigorous standards.

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