Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Skokie, IL

What it is, How it works

Hair sampling is recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. It offers an extended record of substance intake by retaining biomarkers within the strands of the hair. When acquired near the scalp, the hair can reveal drug and alcohol presence over a timeframe of almost three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (matching the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement. If head hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. In context, head hair exclusively means scalp hair, while body hair denotes all other varieties (such as facial and axillary hair).

Process Overview

The core stages in laboratory drug test result processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial phase of incorporating a sample into a lab’s system, confirming that the sample was securely sealed and transported, attributing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any residual data not included by an electronic custody chain system.

Screening entails an initial swift examination for drugs of abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to disqualify drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.

If a sample is presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.

Positive screening results are validated via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards certification.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can reveal substance use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter detection spans.
• Hard to manipulate: Hair drug tests are notably difficult to deceive, enhancing result reliability.
• Chronological data: They can reveal a historical pattern of drug usage rather than just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Cannot identify recent consumption: Typically, drugs are traceable in hair after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug tests tend to be pricier than other drug testing types.
• Result variance: Elements like hair pigmentation and individual hair growth variations influence the concentration of drug metabolites in hair.

Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests", the evaluation is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Skokie, IL, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. Hair tests have a longer detection window, improving reliability in identifying drug use. Employers and courts benefit from the increased assurance that comes with hair testing.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Skokie, IL provides an extended detection period of up to 90 days, offering employers a broad view of an employee or applicant's substance history. This comprehensive insight into drug usage patterns aids in making informed decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Skokie, IL, hair follicle testing significantly reduces sample adulteration risks. Reliable and unquestionable results are ensured, establishing it as the go-to testing method for accuracy and integrity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With convenient testing centers across Skokie, IL and nationwide, accessing our hair follicle drug testing services is quick and hassle-free. Our wide network ensures swift and easy testing availability.

Simple, Confidential Process

Our simple and confidential process in Skokie, IL makes hair follicle testing straightforward. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize privacy and ease of use, addressing concerns for individuals and businesses alike.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Skokie, IL, we offer competitive pricing on hair follicle testing with fast turnaround times. Our services provide exceptional value, catering to businesses of all sizes and ensuring prompt, reliable results.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The precision and rapidity of hair follicle drug testing are unmatched in Skokie, IL. High accuracy makes it a preferred choice for identifying substance use accurately. This testing method ensures swift results, enhancing efficiency for both employers and individuals.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle tests in Skokie, IL aid in maintaining compliance with workplace drug policies, reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their workforce adheres to a drug-free environment.

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