Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting alcohol and drug use. This method captures long-term drug and alcohol history by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of hair as it grows. When hair is clipped near the scalp, it can offer an approximate 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and other drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to alter, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (around the width of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample weight for analyses and validation. For EtG, additional, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. We suggest that the specimen be weighed using a jeweler’s scale. In situations where scalp hair is absent, a comparable volume of body hair can be obtained. It's important to note that when discussing head hair, we're referring solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test laboratory processing comprises four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is processed into a lab’s system. This step involves checking the sample's seal and shipping status, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry beyond what the electronic chain of custody system offers.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation to identify drug abuse. While Screening effectively excludes drug usage in most samples, a positive result needs confirmation for judicial admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive during Screening require an additional verification.
When a sample is positive in the Screening phase, additional hair from the original specimen is prepared for Extraction. During this process, drugs are drawn out from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washing. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is inspected according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation, along with ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mitchellville, IA
Hair follicle testing provides a notable edge over urine tests. Its top-notch detection capacity and reliability make it the preferred option, surpassing traditional methods by a mile.
Extended Detection Window in Mitchellville, IA
With hair follicle tests, drug usage can be identified for as long as 90 days. This extensive window gives employers a deeper insight into the substance habits of an individual.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mitchellville, IA
Hair follicle tests are notably resistant to tampering, ensuring the results are dependable and authentic, providing peace of mind over traditional methods.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mitchellville, IA
The availability of numerous testing centers nationwide guarantees easy and rapid access to essential services, making it convenient for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mitchellville, IA
The simple and private approach in executing these tests provides ease and privacy, simplifying the process ensuring full confidentiality from ordering to results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mitchellville, IA
Our competitive rates and quick processing time offer exceptional value, catering to organizations of all scales, while providing timely results.
Fast, Accurate, Reliable Results in Mitchellville, IA
The precision in hair follicle testing ensures rapid and dependable results. Unlike traditional methods, these tests are adept at tracking any substance use reliably, presenting a clear advantage in providing trustworthy outcomes for various requirements.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mitchellville, IA
Hair follicle tests help maintain workplace drug-free policies, lowering legal risks and boosting safety. This leads to a safer and more compliant work environment.
