Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an efficient method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of substances by enclosing biomarkers within the strands' fibers as they grow. When gathered near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to about 90 days for both alcohol and drugs. It is easy to gather hair samples, challenging to tamper with them, and straightforward to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches, typically around 200 hair strands (equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil) closely collected to the scalp, equates to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional substances, and/or exams extending beyond 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be provided, a comparable quantity of body hair may be taken. When discussing head hair, our reference pertains solely to scalp hair. Other hair types encompass body hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The prominent steps in lab processing for a drug analysis result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial handling of the sample within the lab's framework. It encompasses confirming that the sample is properly sealed and delivered, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concluding any leftover data documentation not covered by an electronic custody tracking system.
Screening involves conducting an initial inspection for illicit substances. Though Screening is an economical means to exclude drug consumption in the bulk of cases, a positive finding necessitates further validation to be legally permissible. Samples with an initial positive result necessitate supplementary confirmation.
When a specimen is preliminarily positive during Screening, additional hair is separated from the original collection and set for Extraction. In this step, substances are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other approaches (such as urine or oral fluid), underlining why hair drug screening is notably intricate to execute.
Confirmation for any positive result from screening is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation when necessary. The entire laboratory journey from Accessioning through Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis involves examining the hair strand rather than the follicle within the scalp.
When considering hair follicle versus urine testing in Auburn, IA, the former offers several key advantages. Hair testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability. With a longer testing window, hair tests can uncover substance use that urine tests might miss.
While urine tests typically only detect recent use, hair tests give a comprehensive history, making them ideal for employers with stringent substance-use policies. This ensures a more thorough assessment, enhancing workplace safety.
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. In Auburn, IA, this method allows for the detection of drug use over a period extending up to 90 days, offering a complete overview of an individual's substance history.
Employers benefit from this expanded window as it provides a more comprehensive understanding of an employee or applicant's drug use, aiding in better-informed hiring and assessment.
Hair follicle tests offer a tamper-resistant method for substance detection in Auburn, IA. Unlike other testing techniques, these tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration, providing outcomes that are both reliable and beyond question.
This testing method's robustness means employers can trust the results, knowing they reflect authentic substance use histories and not influenced by manipulation.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient nationwide testing locations, as well as local options in Auburn, IA. This extensive network ensures access to tests is quick, easy, and hassle-free, offering flexibility and speed for clients needing prompt service.
With widespread availability, individuals and employers can count on the accessibility of a testing center nearby, minimizing delays and maximizing convenience.
The procedure for hair follicle testing in Auburn, IA is simple and confidential. Clients can order tests easily, partake in the sampling process without inconvenience, and receive results discreetly, safeguarding privacy and ensuring ease of use throughout the entire experience.
This streamlined process addresses privacy concerns effectively, making it a preferred choice for many.
Offering affordable pricing and fast turnaround times, our hair follicle testing in Auburn, IA delivers excellent value to companies of all sizes. Competitive pricing structures mean cost-effective solutions, while quick results grant peace of mind, facilitating timely and informed decision-making.
This balance of affordability and speed ensures that your company can enforce policies without financial strain.
Hair follicle tests are known for delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results in Auburn, IA. They provide high precision in identifying substance use, ensuring that you receive definitive and trustworthy outcomes. This efficiency is crucial for employers seeking to make informed decisions quickly.
The accuracy of hair tests surpasses that of traditional methods, ensuring precise detection of drug and alcohol use. The quick turnaround of results allows for timely action, avoiding any unnecessary delays.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Auburn, IA ensures compliance with workplace drug-free policies, offering employers peace of mind. This reliable method reduces legal risks and promotes a safer working environment by providing accurate and verifiable results.
Employers can confidently maintain drug-free policies, knowing that the testing method aligns with compliance standards and occupational safety goals.
