Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Acknowledged for its efficacy, hair testing is recognized as a substantial resource in detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair traps biomarkers within its fibers as it grows, offering an extended history of alcohol and drug usage. When collected near the scalp, it affords up to a 90-day detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and uncomplicated to transport.
An ideal sample for evaluation and confirmation is a 1.5-inch portion of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, providing about 100mg of hair. For testing like EtG, additional screens, or those extending beyond 10 panels, collecting 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable amount of body hair may be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Outline
The procedure of laboratory processing a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory’s workflow. This step includes ensuring the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any other required data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening functions as an initial fast assessment for drugs of abuse. Though cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most samples, any positive screen must undergo confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
Should a sample be presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is isolated from the primary specimen for Extraction. Here, drug compounds are extracted at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the difficulty of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques conduct the Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes. Before Confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo washing as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is scrutinized per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Hair drug testing benefits:
Drawbacks:
Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests", it’s the hair strand analyzed rather than the scalp’s hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Highland Center, IA can be explained by the superior detection and reliability it offers. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing provides a broader detection window, capturing a more extended history of drug use. This not only enhances the accuracy but allows employers to make informed decisions based on comprehensive data, ensuring a drug-free environment.
In Highland Center, IA, the Extended Detection Window offered by hair follicle testing gives a detailed view of substance use over a tremendous span of up to 90 days. This expansive timeline empowers employers with a thorough understanding of an individual’s drug history, providing a clearer picture than standard testing methods and supporting informed hiring and employment practices.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Highland Center, IA is a hallmark of hair follicle tests. Unlike other methods that might be prone to manipulation, hair testing offers peace of mind with its robust anti-tamper capabilities. The integrity of the sample collected cannot be compromised easily, ensuring fairness and reliability in drug testing results, crucial for maintaining workplace standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and local centers in Highland Center, IA ensure a seamless and hassle-free testing experience. Accredited Drug Testing offers multiple facilities, making it easy for individuals and businesses to access testing services anywhere. This widespread availability underscores a commitment to accessibility and convenience, catering to both local and nationwide needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Highland Center, IA, is a cornerstone of our testing services. Ordering, conducting, and receiving results through Accredited Drug Testing is straightforward and secure. Confidentiality is prioritized throughout the process, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring a seamless experience that guarantees the privacy and respect of every individual involved.
In Highland Center, IA, our Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround guarantee excellent value for businesses of all sizes. With competitive rates and speedy results, Accredited Drug Testing ensures cost-effective solutions that don't compromise on quality. This combination of affordability and efficiency provides companies with peace of mind, knowing they receive timely and accurate testing services that suit their budget.
Fast and Reliable Results in Highland Center, IA, are imperative for ensuring workplace safety and compliance. Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and accuracy, offering results that accurately reflect substance use. This method's precision allows for quick and reliable decision-making. Employees and employers alike can trust these tests for timely and dependable insights into substance-related concerns.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers are crucial benefits provided by hair follicle testing in Highland Center, IA. This testing method helps enforce a drug-free workplace, supporting compliance with relevant policies. Employers can reduce legal liabilities while fostering a safe working environment, knowing that this method effectively deters drug use violations through reliable and consistent testing practices.
