Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for detecting substance and alcohol consumption. Hair locks in drug and alcohol markers within its fibers, revealing a comprehensive history of usage over time. When cut near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of almost three months for drugs and alcohol. It is straightforward to gather, generally resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the circumference of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for screening and verification. For EtG, extended panels, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is preferable. It's advisable to weigh the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, a similar amount of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' exclusively refers to scalp hair. 'Body hair' encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing procedure in the lab encompasses four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing within the lab's system. This step ensures that the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary, fast check for substance misuse. Although it's an economical approach to dismiss drug usage in most specimens, any positive screen needs verification for legal admissibility. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
Should a sample show presumptive positivity in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial batch and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drug residues are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence why hair drug analysis is amongst the most challenging methodologies.
Positive screening verification is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are cleansed prior to confirmation if required. Every step from Accessioning to Confirmation is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The test often known as a "hair follicle test" examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Metea, IN
Hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine methods. This method provides a more comprehensive overview of an individual's substance use, making it indispensable for employers and legal entities requiring robust evidence. Its reliability outshines the urine test, delivering enhanced assurance against false negatives.
Extended Detection Window in Metea, IN
One of the strongest advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. Unlike urine tests which only detect short-term use, hair testing uncovers substance usage patterns over approximately 90 days. This capability offers employers a thorough understanding of a potential or current employee's substance history, crucial for informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Metea, IN
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the risk of tampering. This method's design makes it challenging to alter the sample, unlike urine tests. The enhanced security of hair testing provides reliable and credible results, making it the preferred choice for those concerned with preventing sample adulteration in drug testing protocols.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Metea, IN
Our network of testing centers spans nationwide and includes local sites in Metea, IN. This extensive reach ensures swift, easy, and stress-free access to testing services. Our widespread locations mean you can rely on having a center nearby, increasing convenience for both individual and organizational testing needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Metea, IN
Our hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward and maintains confidentiality throughout the process. From ordering the test to sample collection and receiving results, we ensure privacy protection at every step. Individuals in Metea, IN can feel secure in knowing their privacy is respected while benefitting from the test's ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Metea, IN
We offer competitive pricing structures, ensuring affordability for companies of all sizes. Along with cost-effective solutions, our hair follicle testing promises quick result turnaround, delivering exceptional value. Organizations in Metea, IN can rely on this service for both economical pricing and rapid, accurate results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Metea, IN
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and speed. These tests provide high accuracy in identifying substance use, offering peace of mind with rapid turnaround times. Individuals and organizations in Metea, IN can depend on these tests for their effectiveness and swift results, ensuring reliable data to make informed decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Metea, IN
Hair follicle testing aids in upholding drug-free workplace policies, which is vital for employers. This testing method ensures compliance with legal standards and enhances overall workplace safety. By choosing hair follicle testing, employers in Metea, IN can minimize legal risks, providing peace of mind and a healthier work environment.