Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. Collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use in an approximately 3-month timeframe. It is easy to collect hair, difficult to tamper with, and straightforward to send.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches in length, comprising around 200 strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil), near the scalp, will provide 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for examination and verification. For EtG, additional components, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair should be gathered. The term head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The methodology for processing a drug test in the lab is divided into four essential phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample into the lab’s system. This phase ensures the sample was sealed and sent correctly, a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and any other data entry is completed if not provided electronically.
Screening conducts a preliminary assessment for drug misuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage for most samples, a positive result must be confirmed to be acceptable in legal proceedings. Any samples that yield a presumptively positive result in Screening need verification in a subsequent step.
If the Screening phase indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the original sample for the Extraction process. In this stage, substances are withdrawn from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is among the most challenging procedures to conduct.
A confirmed positive result from Screening is verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if required. The total lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the qualification to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Oakland, IA
When comparing hair follicle tests to standard urine tests, hair testing stands out for its superior efficacy. Providing reliable detection over a more extended duration, it offers a holistic view of an individual's substance history. Unlike urine tests, which cover only recent usage, hair tests uncover usage patterns over several months.
Extended Detection Window in Oakland, IA
The extended detection window is one of the hallmark benefits of hair follicle testing, capable of tracing substance use over a period extending up to 90 days. This broad time frame allows employers a thorough understanding of an individual’s prolonged substance use, aiding in more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Oakland, IA
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the potential for sample adulteration. The test’s nature makes it nearly impossible to falsify results, offering definitive outcomes that are trusted and verified. This resistance to tampering provides clarity and confidence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Oakland, IA
With testing centers spread nationwide, including Oakland, IA, our services are convenient for those in need. This extensive network guarantees a seamless experience, ensuring quick and easy access without any complications.
Simple, Confidential Process in Oakland, IA
The process for hair testing is straightforward and safeguards confidentiality throughout. Ordering, testing, and receiving results are managed with ease and privacy, aligning with client comfort and security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Oakland, IA
Our competitive pricing models and rapid turnaround times make hair follicle testing a cost-effective and timely option. Businesses, irrespective of size, derive excellent value, ensuring that comprehensive and speedy results are consistently met.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Oakland, IA
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their impeccable precision and speed. These tests ensure accurate detection of substance abuse meticulously, presenting results swiftly. Its high accuracy level brings certainty to employers and professionals seeking trustworthy testing methods for substance identification.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Oakland, IA
Employers benefit greatly from using hair follicle testing, as it enhances adherence to workplace drug-free regulations. This method alleviates legal concerns and bolsters overall safety, ensuring that workplace policies remain intact and validated.
