Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has evolved into an efficient method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair represents a prolonged timeline of substance intake by capturing biomarkers within the growing hair strand. When procured near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window reaching roughly 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, complex to tamper with, and simple to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch segment consisting of about 200 strands near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, a recommendation of 150mg of the sample is suggested. Usage of a jeweler’s scale is recommended for weighing the sample. In cases where scalp hair is absent, an equivalent amount of body hair can be utilized. The term "head hair" specifically means scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
There are four core steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary processing of a sample into a lab's system. This involves ensuring the sample was secured and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and accomplishing additional data input not generated by an electronic chain-of-custody mechanism.
Screening conducts an initial swift check for the presence of drugs. Screening is a budget-friendly approach to eliminate potential drug use in a large number of samples; however, a positive result demands confirmation to hold up in legal settings. Any samples indicatively positive in Screening require subsequent confirmation.
Should a specimen test positively in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn out from hair at diminished concentrations when compared to alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging method.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are employed for Confirmation of any positive screening findings. All tentative positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if needed. The comprehensive lab process, starting from Accessioning through to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Merits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In South Whitley, IN, hair follicle testing demonstrates clear advantages over urine testing. Hair tests are not only highly accurate but also offer longer detection windows, ensuring comprehensive substance use histories are captured. Coupled with minimal risk of tampering, hair tests stand as a superior option, providing peace of mind to employers and authorities seeking stringent testing methods.
Hair follicle drug testing in South Whitley, IN, is valued for its extended detection period, making it a superior choice for employers. Hair tests can detect drug use up to 90 days prior, encompassing an applicant or employee’s substance history more thoroughly. This extensive view supports informed decision-making, reflecting patterns of behavior over time.
In South Whitley, IN, hair follicle testing is recognized for its tamper-resistant nature. Hair samples are incredibly challenging to adulterate, providing highly reliable outcomes. The test’s design minimizes the possibility of cheating, ensuring the results are authentic and trustworthy, a crucial factor for rigorous compliance and policy enforcement.
For those seeking drug testing in South Whitley, IN, the accessibility to nationwide centers is a significant advantage. Our strategically located testing facilities simplify the process, ensuring quick and hassle-free testing. This extensive network supports seamless service delivery, making testing convenient no matter where individuals or businesses are located.
In South Whitley, IN, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. Ordering, conducting, and receiving test results is simple, addressing common privacy concerns. This ease of use encourages trust and ensures individuals have a stress-free experience throughout the testing journey.
Our hair follicle testing services in South Whitley, IN, are characterized by competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. This combination represents excellent value, proving cost-effective for businesses of all sizes. With rapid results and transparent rates, clients can confidently rely on our services without financial strain.
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in South Whitley, IN, is its unmatched precision and speed in delivering results. Hair tests provide incredibly accurate detection of substance use, setting a high standard for reliability compared to traditional testing methods. This precision enhances confidence in the outcome, ensuring stakeholders receive clear and dependable reports efficiently.
Employers in South Whitley, IN, find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, knowing it assures compliance with drug-free workplace standards. This testing not only reduces legal risks but also bolsters workplace safety, creating a healthier and more productive work environment by minimizing the chance of workplace incidents related to substance use.