Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft. When taken from near the scalp, hair can reveal usage of alcohol and other substances over an approximate three-month period. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (resembling the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the ideal quantity for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG, additional assessments, and/or testing beyond ten panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is absent, a similar amount of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into a laboratory's system, which involves checking that the sample was securely sealed and correctly shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary quick assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective strategy to exclude drug use in the majority of samples, a confirmed positive result is necessary for legal proceedings. All samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require a further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during the Screening stage, additional hair is sourced from the initial specimen for the Extraction process. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most challenging method to carry out.
Confirmation for any positive Screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. During Confirmation, all samples that are presumptively positive are washed as necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and in accordance with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly described as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand, not the hair follicle located beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing shines in Saint Bernice, IN, by offering several advantages over urine testing. While urine tests provide limited windows for detection, hair testing offers a broad and detailed analysis of drug usage over time, enhancing its reliability and detection accuracy. This makes hair testing a superior choice for those valuing a thorough substance use history.
With its extended detection window in Saint Bernice, IN, hair follicle testing enables employers to gain comprehensive insights into an individual’s drug use history. Capable of identifying substance use over 90 days, it provides a far-reaching assessment that aids in making informed decisions, surpassing standard testing limits in both scope and detail.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests in Saint Bernice, IN, presents a superior method of ensuring sample integrity. This testing approach significantly diminishes the chance of adulteration, guaranteeing trustworthy and authentic results. With such reliability, confidence in the outcome is bolstered for both employers and professionals.
Our extensive network of testing locations, including those in Saint Bernice, IN, ensures convenience and accessibility for all clients. Nationwide centers afford quick and seamless access to testing services, streamlining the process and alleviating logistical concerns for organizations and individuals alike.
We prioritize a simple and confidential testing process in Saint Bernice, IN. From the straightforward ordering of tests to receiving the results securely, we ensure privacy throughout. This approach alleviates concerns regarding sensitive information, enabling users to proceed with confidence and trust.
Affordability meets speed in Saint Bernice, IN, with our competitive testing prices and fast turnaround times. Delivering excellent value, we cater to businesses of all sizes seeking cost-effective solutions without compromising on reliability. The balance of affordability and rapid results enhances client satisfaction tremendously.
In Saint Bernice, IN, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their fast and accurate results. These tests streamline the detection process, ensuring quick and precise identification of substances. The advanced technology used in hair testing ensures dependable outcomes, making it an ideal choice for those seeking certainty in their results.
For workplaces in Saint Bernice, IN, hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free policies, safeguarding against legal risks. This method not only promotes workplace safety but also provides employers with the peace of mind of knowing they are adhering to ethical and lawful standards, thus upholding a secure work environment.
