Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing stands as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of these substances by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can supply a detection window of up to approximately 3 months for alcohol and drugs. The collection process for hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional panels, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It’s suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a comparable amount of body hair may be obtained. When referring to head hair, it pertains to scalp hair specifically. Body hair encompasses all other types like facial, axillary, etc.
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system, ensuring the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While it’s an economical means to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive screen demands confirmation to be valid in court. Any samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate an additional confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positive results during Screening, more hair is taken from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most complex methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the assessment targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Enhanced Detection Accuracy
Hair follicle testing in Portsmouth, IA, outshines urine tests by offering superior accuracy. This method provides an extensive detection window, uncovering substance use long after consumption.
Compared to urine tests, hair tests allow for a more thorough review of an individual's drug history. This makes them indispensable to employers and authorities seeking reliable results.
Long-Lasting Detection
Hair follicle testing in Portsmouth, IA, offers an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This capability exceeds the limits of other drug testing forms, giving employers detailed insights into substance use over time.
Employers benefit from a clear view of applicants or employees' substance usage history, aiding in making informed decisions about potential hires or current staff.
Reliable and Secure Testing
Portsmouth, IA's hair follicle testing significantly deters tampering. This method ensures sample integrity, reliably detecting substance use without adulteration concerns.
Employers and legal entities appreciate this testing's credibility, knowing results are trustworthy and defendable if scrutinized.
Accessible Testing Services
Portsmouth, IA, benefits from nationwide hair follicle testing centers, providing accessibility and convenience. Quick and hassle-free, this service ensures testing is accessible to all.
Local availability means reduced waiting times and increased efficiency, adding to the convenience of obtaining necessary testing services without delay.
Streamlined and Confidential
In Portsmouth, IA, the hair follicle testing process is both straightforward and private, ensuring peace of mind for all involved. Ordering, testing, and receiving results is effortless.
The confidentiality of the process reassures individuals that their privacy is safeguarded, maintaining trust and security throughout.
Cost-Effective and Quick Results
Accredited Drug Testing provides competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround times in Portsmouth, IA. This makes hair follicle testing an excellent value for businesses of varying sizes.
Affordable rates and prompt results offer companies efficient solutions, providing dependable assessments without breaking the budget.
Precision and Speed in Drug Testing
In Portsmouth, IA, hair follicle drug tests ensure fast and precise outcomes. These tests excel in detecting substance use, delivering reliable results swiftly. They are revered for their accuracy, often preferred by employers who require immediate and dependable results.
With their detailed detection capabilities, hair follicle tests identify signs of drug use more efficiently than traditional methods. This speed and precision benefit employers requiring prompt assessments.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
Employers in Portsmouth, IA, find peace of mind using hair follicle tests, knowing they ensure compliance with drug-free policies. This method minimizes legal risks and enhances workplace security.
By choosing this rigorous testing, employers maintain safer work environments, aligning with legal and safety mandates.
