Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as an effective means for identifying the use of alcohol and drugs. Hair offers a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When collected from near the scalp, it can reveal alcohol and drug use within roughly a three-month timeframe. The collection process is straightforward, and altering the sample is challenging, with shipping being uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG extras or panels over 10, 150mg is suggested. A jeweler’s scale is advised for weighing the sample. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair is usable. "Head hair" refers solely to scalp hair, while "body hair" covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test result in the lab consists of four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial integration of a sample into the lab's system. This step involves checking that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and filling in any missing data not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening acts as a preliminary check for drug presence. Though cost-saving and effective in excluding drug use for most samples, a positive result must be confirmed to be court-admissible. Samples with presumptively positive results during Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample is marked as presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are drawn from hair in significantly lower concentrations than other methods (for example, urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screenings particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is done via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positives are washed as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests," the test actually analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Fair Oaks, IN: Hair follicle testing offers a distinct advantage with its superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair tests detect drugs over longer periods, making them highly effective for evaluating an individual’s substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Fair Oaks, IN: Employers benefit from hair follicle testing due to its extended detection window, tracking drug use for up to 90 days. This broadened timeframe allows a comprehensive overview of an applicant or employee's substance use, aiding in better decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fair Oaks, IN: Hair follicle tests substantially reduce the risk of sample adulteration, offering results that are reliable and unquestionable. This method provides security against tampering, ensuring that test outcomes are trustworthy and valid.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Fair Oaks, IN: Our expansive network of testing centers ensures quick and easy access to services nationwide. This wide availability guarantees a hassle-free testing process, accommodating the needs of individuals and employers alike with convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Fair Oaks, IN: Our streamlined procedure for ordering, taking, and receiving test results maintains privacy and ease of use. Navigating the testing steps is straightforward, designed to uphold confidentiality and ensure user comfort throughout the process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fair Oaks, IN: Our competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times deliver excellent value. We cater to businesses of all sizes, providing affordable options and management ease to support their drug testing needs effectively.
Hair follicle drug testing in Fair Oaks, IN, stands out for its speed and accuracy. This method reliably detects substance use, ensuring employers can make informed decisions with confidence. The efficiency of collecting and analyzing samples offers fast and dependable results that businesses can count on.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fair Oaks, IN: Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This practice mitigates legal risks and bolsters workplace safety, affording employers peace of mind and confidence in their employee screening protocols.
