Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an efficient method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By embedding biomarkers within the hair's growing fibers, hair can provide a long-term depiction of alcohol and drug usage. When obtained near the scalp, hair offers an approximate three-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, moderately resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal quantity for assessment and validation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is suggested. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the specimen is advised. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable volume of body hair can be gathered. The term "head hair" exclusively refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the initial phase of incorporating a sample into the lab's system. This phase involves ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry tasks absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for detecting drugs of abuse. While Screening effectively rules out drug use in most samples at a lower cost, a positive result demands verification for court admissibility. Samples testing potentially positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), rendering hair drug analysis the most intricate procedure to conduct.
Confirming any positive screening outcome is performed using methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Princeton, IL
Hair follicle tests offer a notable advantage over urine tests with their superior detection capabilities. While urine tests can only detect recent substance use, hair tests can reveal a detailed history of drug use extending up to 90 days. This enhanced detection accuracy provides a more reliable picture of an individual's substance use, which is critical for employers and judicial matters in Princeton.
Extended Detection Window in Princeton, IL
One of the main benefits of hair follicle testing is its capability to detect drug usage over an extended period, up to 90 days. This long detection window allows employers to have an in-depth understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance history, making it a preferred choice in Princeton, IL, where thorough vetting is vital for workplace safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Princeton, IL
Hair follicle testing offers a significant reduction in the risk of sample tampering. Unlike other testing methods susceptible to adulteration, collecting hair samples ensures the integrity of the results. In Princeton, IL, opting for hair follicle tests means choosing a reliable and trustworthy testing method that mitigates the risk of manipulation and guarantees accurate outcomes.
This ensures employers receive honest and dependable data.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Princeton, IL
With testing centers spread across the nation and locally in Princeton, IL, seeking drug testing services becomes a convenient process. Our strategically placed facilities ensure that individuals and businesses can quickly and seamlessly access testing services, reducing wait times and logistical challenges typically associated with scheduling drug tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Princeton, IL
The process of hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. From ordering the test to collecting results, individuals in Princeton, IL can rest assured that their privacy is protected. The ease of use ensures that even first-time users have a hassle-free experience, prioritizing their peace of mind and confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Princeton, IL
Offering competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, our hair follicle testing services in Princeton, IL provide excellent value without compromising on quality. Whether for small businesses or large corporations, our cost-effective options ensure that all entities can benefit from reliable testing without straining budgets, underscoring our commitment to affordability.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Princeton, IL
Hair follicle drug testing stands out due to its precision and speed in delivering results. It effectively detects a wide range of substances, offering a high level of accuracy in identifying substance use patterns. In Princeton, IL, where timely and reliable results are crucial, hair testing provides the assurance needed for critical decision-making.
The efficiency of the process not only saves time but also enhances trust in the outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Princeton, IL
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to workplace drug-free regulations, thereby minimizing potential legal issues. By ensuring employees comply with substance policies, businesses in Princeton, IL can enhance safety and foster a more secure work environment, leading to peace of mind and smoother operations.
