Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Arnolds Park, IA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as a key method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encases biomarkers within the strands as it grows, offering a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage. When taken directly from the scalp, hair allows for an approximately three-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and simple to send.

A sample of around 200 hair strands measuring 1.5 inches (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp equates to 100mg, which is the perfect amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond 10, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not an option, the same amount of body hair can be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair, while body hair covers all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The main procedures within the laboratory analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the primary handling of a sample within a lab system. This stage ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any needed supplemental data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.

Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for possible drug presence. Although Screening is an economical approach to eliminate drug use in many cases, any screened positives require Confirmation for legal validity. Presumptively positive samples during Screening necessitate further confirmation.

For samples assumed positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample and set aside for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at notably lower concentrations than alternative methods (such as urine or oral fluids), proving why hair drug testing is the most challenging technique.

Positive screening outcomes undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use up to 90 days back, unlike urine tests with a shorter detection period.
• Hard to falsify: Manipulating hair drug test results is extremely challenging, enhancing the reliability.
• Shows usage history: It can illustrate a trend of drug use over time, not just recent usage.

Limitations:

• Cannot identify immediate use: It typically takes around 5-7 days for drugs to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing tends to be pricier than other drug test methodologies.
• Result discrepancies: Aspects like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Frequently termed "hair follicle tests," these tests analyze the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Arnolds Park, IA

• Hair testing offers superior detection capabilities.
• It's nearly impossible to alter results, unlike with urine tests.
• Employers can rely on its reliability and comprehensive insight into substance use.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Arnolds Park, IA

• Hair testing captures a 90-day drug use history.
• This extended window offers a thorough perspective of an individual's habits.
• Employers gain a comprehensive understanding of potential hires or current employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Arnolds Park, IA

• Hair follicle tests are designed to prevent manipulation or adulteration.
• The collected samples are incredibly resistant to tampering attempts.
• This provides reliable results that stand up to scrutiny.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Arnolds Park, IA

• Access to a vast network of testing centers across the country.
• Local locations ensure rapid, straightforward access to services.
• The process is made hassle-free for individuals and employers alike.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Arnolds Park, IA

• Ordering and taking tests is straightforward and confidential.
• The privacy of all clients is maintained throughout the process.
• Results are discreetly delivered, respecting all privacy concerns.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Arnolds Park, IA

• Competitive pricing makes it accessible to businesses of every size.
• Quick turnaround times speed up the decision-making process.
• Businesses gain excellent value, boosting efficiency and cutting costs.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Arnolds Park, IA

• The precision of hair follicle drug tests is unmatched in the industry.
• With rapid processing times, results are delivered quickly, reducing waiting periods for critical decisions.
• High accuracy ensures peace of mind and confidence in the test outcome.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Arnolds Park, IA

• Using hair follicle testing enforces workplace drug-free policies.
• It minimizes legal risks associated with substance use in the workplace.
• Employers enjoy enhanced safety and compliance assurance.

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