Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. The hair traps biomarkers within its fibers as it grows, providing a comprehensive historical record of substance use. When collected near the scalp, it can reveal alcohol and drug use for a period of up to three months. The collection process is straightforward, and the samples are challenging to tamper with, plus they are convenient to transport.
To obtain the optimal sample for analysis and confirmation, a 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) should be taken from the scalp, yielding approximately 100mg of hair. For tests such as EtG, additional analysis, and/or above 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for accurate measurement. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. The term "head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (including facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially entered into the laboratory system, ensuring proper sealing and transportation, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any necessary data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a preliminary examination for substances of abuse. While it is an economical approach to eliminate drug use suspicion for a majority of samples, confirmation is essential for any positive result to stand in legal proceedings. Presumptive positive results from Screening require further confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positives during the Screening phase, additional hair from the original sample is processed for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis demands expert technique.
To substantiate any positive Screening outcome, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques are employed. All presumptive positives go through a wash process before Confirmation if essential. The comprehensive laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand instead of the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Bartlett, IA offers superior accuracy over traditional urine tests. With enhanced reliability, it ensures precise drug detection, setting it apart.
In comparison to urine tests, hair follicle evaluations provide more dependable results, making them a more favored choice for organizations.
The extended detection period of hair follicle tests offers employers in Bartlett, IA a 90-day overview of substance use. This method significantly broadens the observable time frame.
Employers looking for a comprehensive assessment of an individual's substance history will gain from hair testing's prolonged detection capabilities, unmatched by other methodologies.
One key benefit of hair follicle testing in Bartlett, IA is its resistance to sample tampering, providing consistent and trustworthy results.
Minimizing the risk of adulterating samples, hair testing ensures verifiable outcomes, crucial for organizations demanding trustworthy assessments.
Nationwide facilities make drug testing accessible and convenient in Bartlett, IA. Effortless access ensures a straightforward and efficient testing process for all clients.
The convenience of local and national testing sites provides easy entry to necessary testing services, streamlining client experiences.
The hair testing procedure in Bartlett, IA is straightforward and maintains confidentiality, making it user-friendly while ensuring the privacy of participants.
From ordering to receiving results, the entire process is designed to be seamless and secure, addressing any concerns about confidentiality.
Affordable pricing and rapid turnaround characterize the drug testing services offered in Bartlett, IA, delivering exceptional value to businesses.
With our competitive pricing structure, coupled with quick results, companies of all sizes benefit from both cost-effectiveness and peace of mind.
Testing in Bartlett, IA is not just fast but also highly accurate. Hair follicle tests stand out for their precision, effectively detecting substance use with rapid results.
Those in need of reliable results can depend on hair testing methods to provide quick yet thorough analyses, making it a preferred choice for many.
Employers in Bartlett, IA who opt for hair follicle testing benefit from assurance of adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This reduces liabilities and enhances workplace safety.
By integrating hair follicle tests, companies align with compliance standards, fostering a more secure work environment while mitigating legal risks.