Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair has the ability to preserve a record of alcohol and drug use over an extended period by capturing biomarkers in the structure of the hair strand as it grows. Collected near the scalp, hair offers an approximate window of three months for detecting alcohol and other substances. The collection process is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, add-ons, or testing exceeding 10 panels, a requirement of 150mg of hair is advised. Using a jeweler's scale is suggested to weigh the specimen accurately. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair is an acceptable substitute. Head hair exclusively refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The steps in laboratory analysis of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the entry of a sample into the laboratory's system. This procedure verifies that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drug presence. Though Screening is cost-effective for ruling out drug usage in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples yielding presumptive positives in Screening mandate secondary confirmation.
For specimens that are presumptively positive at Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are separated from hair at notably lower concentrations than in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive Screening results. Presumptive positives are optionally washed before confirmation. The lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Pros of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though frequently termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New London, IA
Hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. In New London, its enhanced detection capabilities and ability to provide trustworthy results make it an advantageous option for employers and organizations dedicated to maintaining a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in New London, IA
Hair follicle tests in New London, IA provide an extended window of detection for drug use, up to 90 days. This longer period enables employers to gain deeper insights into an applicant or employee's substance use history, contributing to more informed decision-making regarding workplace safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New London, IA
In New London, IA, hair follicle testing significantly reduces the likelihood of sample tampering. Due to their collection method and biological properties, hair tests offer reliable and nearly tamper-proof results, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of drug testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New London, IA
Convenience is key in New London, IA, with accessible testing centers available nationwide. This eases the process for individuals and organizations to access testing services swiftly and efficiently, facilitating an uninterrupted and user-friendly experience.
Simple, Confidential Process in New London, IA
In New London, IA, the process for ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. Emphasizing ease of use and privacy, it addresses user concerns and ensures a seamless testing experience from start to finish.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New London, IA
Our hair follicle testing services in New London, IA feature competitive pricing and swift result delivery. Catering to companies of all sizes, we offer significant value and quick turnaround times, ensuring peace of mind and budget-friendly solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New London, IA
Hair follicle tests stand out for their remarkable precision and speed. In New London, IA, they are renowned for their high level of accuracy in identifying substance use. This makes them a preferred choice for individuals and organizations seeking reliable drug testing solutions, offering confidence in the integrity of the results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New London, IA
Employing hair follicle testing in New London, IA ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, enhancing organizational safety and legal compliance. This method reduces potential legal issues, providing employers with peace of mind and a safer working environment.
