Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Bernard, IA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures and retains biomarkers within the fibers as it grows, offering a prolonged detection history. When taken near the scalp, it delivers up to an approximately 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is uncomplicated, challenging to tamper with, and easy to send.

A sample of roughly 200 hair strands measuring 1.5 inches (comparable to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg, a preferred amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG assessments, additions, and tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The drug testing laboratory process comprises four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab's system, ensuring it is well-sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concluding any extra data input absent in an electronic custody chain system.

Screening performs an initial rapid check for drug substances. While it's a budget-friendly approach to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive outcome must be verified to be court-admissible. All samples showing a presumed positive in Screening require further confirmation.

If Screening indicates a presumed positive result, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample for the Extraction phase. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at a lower concentration than other techniques such as urine or oral fluid, which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology.

Confirmation of any positive Screening results occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all samples presumed positive are washed as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests detect drug use up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with a shorter window.
• Hard to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is notably difficult, enhancing accuracy.
• Offers historical data: Shows a pattern of drug usage over time, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect recent use: Drugs take approximately 5-7 days to be detectable in hair.
• Cost: Hair drug tests are typically pricier than alternative methods.
• Result variations: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences can change drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bernard, IA

• Hair follicle tests provide a longer detection window, sometimes up to 90 days, offering superior insights into an individual's drug use history.
• Unlike urine tests, hair testing reduces the risk of test manipulation, ensuring more reliable results.
• The accuracy of hair tests outmatches urine tests, making them a preferred option for employers and agencies alike.

Extended Detection Window

In Bernard, IA, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing is a major advantage. Capable of detecting drug use spanning up to 90 days, these tests offer employers a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance history, aiding in a more informed decision-making process for both hiring and ongoing employment.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Bernard, IA stands as a tamper-resistant method. This form of testing significantly decreases the risk of sample tampering or adulteration, delivering reliable and indisputable results. Hair samples are less susceptible to manipulation compared to other testing modalities, thus ensuring integrity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bernard, IA

• Our vast network of testing centers ensures quick and easy access to hair follicle testing services nationwide.
• In Bernard, IA, residents benefit from local sites that make testing hassle-free and convenient.
• Employers and individuals alike can access these services swiftly, ensuring minimal interruption to their schedules.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Bernard, IA, the process for hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering and taking the test, along with receiving results, is streamlined to address privacy concerns and ensure ease of use. Clients benefit from a straightforward process that safeguards their personal information at every step.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bernard, IA

• Competitive pricing structures make hair follicle testing accessible to companies of all sizes.
• Fast turnaround times ensure quick receipt of results, providing excellent value.
• These features promise peace of mind, making it a cost-effective solution for all stakeholders involved.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug tests in Bernard, IA, provide exceptional precision and speed. Known for delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results, these tests effectively detect substance use, ensuring the highest level of confidence in test outcomes for both employers and individuals.
The rapid turnaround for results makes it a preferred choice compared to traditional methods.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bernard, IA

• Employers gain assurance of meeting workplace drug-free policies using hair follicle testing.
• This testing helps mitigate legal risks while enhancing the safety environment at work.
• Employers are able to ensure policy compliance efficiently with reduced liabilities.

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