Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments have gained prominence as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair retains a timeline of drug and alcohol intake by embedding biomarkers in its developing strands. When clipped close to the scalp, hair can reveal a consumption history spanning up to roughly 90 days for substances such as alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat tamper-resistant, and can be easily dispatched.
A section of hair measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp provides 100mg, the prime quantity for both screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, or analyses exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically relates to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test follows four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the primary handling of a specimen within a lab’s system. This process includes confirmation that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and any supplementary data logging not offered by an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for illicit substances. While Screening is economically viable for excluding substance use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn out of the hair at a significantly lower concentration than with alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug analysis the most intricate methodology to undertake.
Verification of any positive screening result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and the endorsement to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rose Hill, IL
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, the superior detection and reliability of hair testing stand out. Hair tests offer a broader detection window and are less susceptible to adulteration, providing a clearer picture of long-term substance use and instilling more confidence in the results.
Extended Detection Window in Rose Hill, IL
Hair follicle testing offers an impressive detection period of up to 90 days, far exceeding that of other methods. This prolonged detection window grants employers the ability to review an individual's substance history comprehensively, ensuring a thorough assessment of their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rose Hill, IL
Hair follicle tests stand out for their rigorous immunity to tampering. Unlike other methods that might be more prone to adulteration, hair samples provide reliable and incontrovertible results, assuring employers and regulatory bodies of the test's integrity and trustworthiness.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rose Hill, IL
Accredited Drug Testing's extensive network ensures accessibility with convenient centers nationwide, including local sites in Rose Hill, IL. This widespread availability facilitates easy and hassle-free access to our testing services, ensuring seamless service delivery.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rose Hill, IL
The straightforward and private process of ordering, undergoing, and receiving results from hair follicle tests makes it an appealing choice. This confidential approach addresses privacy concerns, ensuring ease of use for all clients while departing stress-free with anticipated results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rose Hill, IL
With competitive pricing and swift result delivery, our hair follicle testing services in Rose Hill, IL, offer exceptional value. Companies of all sizes can benefit from this affordability while experiencing fast turnaround times, providing peace of mind and excellent service.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rose Hill, IL
Hair follicle drug tests in Rose Hill, IL, are renowned for their speed and precision. These tests boast high reliability in detecting substance use, offering quick results that employers and individuals can trust. The timeliness combined with accuracy ensures that any substance usage does not go unnoticed.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rose Hill, IL
Utilizing hair follicle testing assures employers of compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This process reduces potential legal issues and enhances overall workplace safety, granting employers peace of mind knowing all safety protocols are being met efficiently.
