Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as a robust method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair can retain a historical record of alcohol and drugs through the encapsulation of biomarkers in the strands of hair as they grow. When collected near the scalp, hair offers an approximation of up to a 3-month detection period for substances. It is easy to collect hair, reasonably difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with about 200 strands of hair (similar to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. We recommend using a jeweler’s scale for accurate specimen measurement. If head hair cannot be sourced, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When referring to head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four core steps in laboratory handling of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step of organizing a sample into the lab’s database. This involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, allotting a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any missing data not included in an online chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial swift drug detection test. While Screening is a low-cost method to exclude drug presence in most cases, a positive result in Screening needs further verification to be court-admissible. Samples that yield positive results in Screening require a further confirmation step.
If a positive is suspected during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the given sample and prepared for the Extraction process. At this stage, drugs are removed from hair at substantially lower levels compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), explaining why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory operation from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Pros of hair drug screening:
Challenges:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bussey, IA
The advantages of hair follicle testing over urine tests are striking. Hair testing boasts superior detection accuracy, providing more reliable data over an extensive period. This method highlights substance use far better than traditional urine tests, making it an increasingly popular choice for employers committed to maintaining a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Bussey, IA
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window, tracing drug use up to 90 days. This advantage provides employers in Bussey, IA, with a thorough examination of an individual's substance use history, empowering them with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about potential or existing employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bussey, IA
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample tampering, delivering reliable results that are hard to dispute. This robust testing method strengthens confidence in findings and provides assurance to those relying on the accuracy and integrity of the testing process in Bussey, IA.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bussey, IA
With a network of nationwide testing centers, including locations in Bussey, IA, accessing testing services is both quick and straightforward. This convenience ensures minimal disruption and a streamlined experience for all seeking reliable drug testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bussey, IA
In Bussey, IA, the process for ordering and undertaking a hair follicle test is designed to be simple and discreet. From scheduling to receiving results, confidentiality, and ease remain at the forefront, addressing privacy concerns and enhancing user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bussey, IA
Our competitive pricing and prompt turnaround times in Bussey, IA, offer exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. These advantages mean companies can benefit from cost-effective drug testing without sacrificing quality or timeliness, ensuring peace of mind through efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bussey, IA
Hair follicle drug tests in Bussey, IA, promise rapid and precise substance detection results. Customers benefit from heightened accuracy levels, offering reliable insight into substance use history. Often preferred for their unparalleled detail, hair tests can deliver quick results, ensuring employers and individuals receive the clarity and assurance they seek in their testing outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bussey, IA
By adopting hair follicle testing, employers in Bussey, IA, can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This not only alleviates legal complexities but also promotes a safer work environment, bringing peace of mind to all connected parties and reinforcing a commitment to compliance and safety.
