Accredited Drug Testing offers comprehensive hair follicle drug testing services in Patoka, Illinois. If a hair drug or alcohol test is necessary, our expertise in hair testing is backed by our nationwide network of testing centers capable of conducting hair-based tests. Typically, a sample requires 1.5 to 2 inches of hair from the head crown or body. Tests can assess drugs, alcohol/ETG, and other tailored hair testing needs.
In recent times, drug testing methodologies have increasingly embraced hair follicle testing. Many employers, courts, and substance abuse experts now prefer a hair drug test over the standard urine test. This preference is due to its utilization by employers with strict no-drug policies, judicial bodies, and individuals on probation. A key advantage of hair follicle testing is its extended drug detection period, reaching up to 90 days, within a supervised collection process that's tough to manipulate. However, for identifying drug use within the past 5 days, urine tests remain the most precise method.
* You must register by phone or online to receive your donor pass/registration prior to proceeding to the testing center. You must bring a valid government issued ID along with the registration/barcode number which was sent to you by email.
When you're searching for hair drug testing near me or hair drug testing locations, we provide a simple and convenient process to find a drug and alcohol testing location near you that is certified to provide all of your drug and alcohol testing needs.
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying the presence of drugs and alcohol. Through capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair, it provides a long-term record. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can offer up to a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and other substances. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch length consisting of around 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp presents 100mg of hair, considered ideal for both screening and confirmation. In cases involving EtG, additional substances, or more than 10-panel tests, 150mg of hair is recommended. Specimens should be measured using a jeweler’s scale, and if scalp hair isn’t available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. Head hair denotes only scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
There are four primary stages in the lab processing of drug test outcomes: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the sample's initial integration into a lab's system. This phase ensures the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills any data gaps not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
In the Screening phase, there’s an initial examination for substances of abuse. Although this method is cost-efficient for eliminating drug use in most samples, positive results require confirmation for court acceptance, necessitating additional verification of any presumptively positive samples.
If a sample is positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is taken from the starting specimen for Extraction, where drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid). Thus, hair drug screening is considered the most challenging method to carry out.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is handled via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All ostensibly positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The complete laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, receives evaluation under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While these are often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Patoka, IL
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability. The comprehensive detection capabilities of hair testing provide a clearer picture of substance use over time, making it invaluable for institutions seeking precise drug use insights. This proficiency often places hair testing ahead of urine-based alternatives.
Extended Detection Window in Patoka, IL
One of the most significant benefits of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. By covering up to 90 days, employers in Patoka gain invaluable insights into an individual's substance history, allowing for better-informed decisions regarding potential hires or ongoing employee assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Patoka, IL
Hair follicle testing significantly minimizes the likelihood of sample adulteration. This testing method's design ensures that the results are reliable and beyond question, benefiting decision-makers who require assurance against tampered drug test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Patoka, IL
With a widespread network of testing centers, both nationwide and locally in Patoka, hair follicle testing becomes easily accessible. This ensures that individuals and companies can access testing services swiftly, making the process smooth and hassle-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Patoka, IL
The entire hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and private. From ordering a test to sample collection and receiving results, the process addresses privacy concerns and eases usage. Individuals remain confident knowing their information is secure throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Patoka, IL
Offered at competitive pricing, hair follicle tests in Patoka also ensure a fast turnaround time. This combination of affordability and speed provides excellent value to businesses, ensuring they get the most out of their investment in maintaining a drug-free environment.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Patoka, IL
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and swiftness, making it a preferred choice for thorough substance detection. The method expertly captures an individual's substance use, ensuring that results are not only quick but also highly dependable, giving stakeholders confidence in the outcome.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Patoka, IL
Adopting hair follicle testing helps employers stay compliant with drug-free workplace policies. The methodology reduces legal liabilities and enhances the workplace's safety, giving employers in Patoka peace of mind knowing their environment remains free from drug use disturbances.
