Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a chronological record of substance use by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug or alcohol use within approximately a 3-month timeframe. Collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to ship.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and verification. For EtG or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample weighing 150mg is advised. It is important to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, the equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the preliminary processing of a sample within a lab’s system. This step verifies if the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and includes any extra data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for drugs of concern. Though cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples with a presumed positive result in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
If a sample is assumed positive at the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of a positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, as needed. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently called "hair follicle tests," the assessment actually analyzes the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint Meinrad, IN
In Saint Meinrad, IN, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests by providing superior detection accuracy and reliability. While urine tests are commonly known, hair tests reach back up to 90 days, offering a detailed view of substance use. This extensive window makes hair testing a more effective choice for those seeking comprehensive evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Saint Meinrad, IN
Hair follicle testing's strength lies in its extended detection window, stretching up to 90 days. In Saint Meinrad, IN, this longer period offers employers a thorough understanding of a person's substance use history. By embracing hair testing, businesses gain a comprehensive view, which aids in assessing the long-term reliability of employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint Meinrad, IN
Hair follicle tests significantly diminish the risk of sample adulteration, making them a tamper-resistant method in Saint Meinrad, IN. As a reliable and unquestionable choice, hair testing provides assurance that results are accurate and untainted. This method ensures confidence in the integrity of each test conducted.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Saint Meinrad, IN
Our testing centers offer convenience with nationwide access, including numerous facilities in Saint Meinrad, IN. By ensuring quick and hassle-free access to our services, we make drug testing a straightforward process. Locally and nationally, our network supports easy testing solutions for every need.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint Meinrad, IN
In Saint Meinrad, IN, our hair follicle testing process is simple and respects confidentiality. From ordering tests to collecting samples and receiving results, each step prioritizes privacy and ease. This user-friendly approach addresses privacy concerns and guarantees a discreet experience for all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint Meinrad, IN
Our competitive pricing paired with quick turnaround times provides excellent value in Saint Meinrad, IN. Whether a small business or large corporation, this cost-effective solution offers peace of mind. By delivering fast results, you gain the advantage of timely insights without financial burden.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint Meinrad, IN
The precision and speed of hair follicle testing in Saint Meinrad, IN are unmatched. Offering high accuracy in detecting substance use, this method delivers dependable results swiftly, ensuring you receive the assurance needed when screening for drug use. Faster turnaround times coupled with detailed detection capabilities make hair testing an ideal choice for reliable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint Meinrad, IN
Employers in Saint Meinrad, IN can achieve compliance and peace of mind by employing hair follicle testing. It effectively supports drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal liabilities and enhancing overall workplace safety. By utilizing hair testing, you ensure adherence to regulations, providing security and certainty to all involved.