Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within its fibers as the strand grows. When cut near the scalp, hair offers up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. It's straightforward to gather, tough to tamper with, and easy to send.
A 1.5-inch snippet consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. By head hair, we mean only the scalp hair, while body hair refers to all other types (e.g. facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is logged into the lab's system. This stage ensures the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any pending data entry that isn’t covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening cost-efficiently excludes drug use for most samples, any positive result must be confirmed to be court-admissible. Presumptive positive samples from Screening mandate further confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positive outcomes in the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. Here, drugs are extracted from the hair at concentrations much lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology.
Confirmation of any positive screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned as needed before confirmation. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation along with accreditation compliance to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Stoy, IL
Hair follicle drug testing provides several advantages over traditional urine tests, particularly in terms of detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair tests are less prone to tampering and can detect a wider range of substances over an extended period. The higher reliability of hair tests means they deliver trustworthy results that can significantly benefit various industries requiring stringent drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Stoy, IL
The capability of hair follicle testing to identify drug usage over a long duration, up to 90 days, is a significant advantage. It allows employers a broader perspective of an applicant's or employee's substance history, offering peace of mind and detailed insight. This extended timeframe aids in maintaining a drug-free workplace by providing a comprehensive view of an individual's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Stoy, IL
Hair follicle tests reduce the chances of sample tampering, a common issue with other testing methods. The integrity of the hair test ensures that the results are credible and irrefutable, safeguarding against sample adulteration. This reliability makes hair testing a dependable option for institutions looking for unequivocal proof of substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Stoy, IL
With a widespread network of testing centers nationwide, individuals in Stoy, IL, can easily access testing services. This accessibility ensures that the process is quick and straightforward, minimizing any inconvenience. Our centers are strategically positioned for hassle-free service provision, enhancing the overall testing experience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Stoy, IL
The process for hair follicle drug testing in Stoy, IL, is straightforward and ensures privacy. From ordering the test to taking it and receiving the results, the steps involved are designed to protect confidentiality and ease of use, addressing any apprehensions about privacy while maintaining a user-friendly procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Stoy, IL
Our competitive pricing coupled with quick turnaround times for hair follicle testing offers substantial value for businesses of all sizes. Organizations gain not only from affordable solutions but also from the confidence that comes with fast and dependable testing services, enhancing operational efficiency and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Stoy, IL
Hair follicle drug testing offers great precision and speed, making it a preferred choice for detecting substance use. The accuracy provided by these tests in identifying drug usage is unmatched, ensuring timely and reliable outcomes. With swift processing times, individuals and organizations can expect rapid feedback, aiding in quick decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Stoy, IL
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to drug-free workplace guidelines, mitigating legal consequences and enhancing the safety of work environments. Employers benefit from the reassurance that comes from implementing such rigorous testing methods, fostering a safer and more compliant workplace culture.
