Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Forest City, IA

What it is, How it works

Hair examination is now recognized as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug consumption by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When clipped close to the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch section comprising approximately 200 hair strands (roughly akin to the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is considered an optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. ‘Head hair’ refers solely to scalp hair, while ‘body hair’ encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory’s system. This procedure ensures the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and incorporates any extra data not included in an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug usage for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to hold up in court. Samples deemed presumptive positive during Screening require a confirmatory test.

If a sample tests presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than conventional methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.

The Confirmation of any positive screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples presumed positive undergo a wash prior to confirmation as determined necessary. The full laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation operates under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can reveal drug use for as long as 90 days, surpassing the shorter detection period of urine tests.
• Hard to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is quite challenging, thus enhancing result accuracy.
• Delivers historical insight: It can illustrate a trend of drug usage over time, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Incapable of identifying recent use: Drugs become apparent in hair approximately 5-7 days post-use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs compared to alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Factors such as hair color and individual differences in hair growth might influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although frequently 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 Forest City, IA
Hair follicle testing emerges superior to traditional urine tests, offering enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. With the ability to screen a broader drug history with precision, it surpasses conventional methods, delivering assured results.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Forest City, IA
The remarkable detection capability of hair follicle testing spans up to 90 days. This provides employers with a detailed view of a candidate's or employee's substance use history, painting a comprehensive picture over an extended period.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Forest City, IA
Hair follicle tests offer a robust solution against sample adulteration risks, ensuring that results are both reliable and beyond dispute. The unique testing process drastically limits any possibility of tampering.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Forest City, IA
Our network of nationwide testing centers simplifies access, guaranteeing fast, streamlined, and hassle-free service. Local options ensure prompt and efficient support for all testing needs in Forest City, IA.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Forest City, IA
Our hair follicle testing promises a straightforward and private process, from ordering through result receipt. This approach addresses privacy considerations and emphasizes ease of use.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Forest City, IA
Our competitive pricing and quick result delivery model ensures excellent value. Companies, regardless of size, benefit from cost-effective solutions and dependable service speed.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Forest City, IA
Hair follicle drug tests lead the way in terms of precision and speed. By integrating advanced technology, these tests offer a high degree of accuracy in detecting substance use. The method stands out as a fast, efficient, and dependable option for those seeking rapid results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Forest City, IA
Implementing hair follicle testing supports adherence to drug-free workplace mandates, cutting down on legal concerns and bolstering workplace safety. Employers gain assurance in maintaining a compliant and secure environment.

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