Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of drug and alcohol intake, preserving biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When hair is collected near the scalp, it offers a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and conveniently sent for analysis.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch portion consisting of approximately 200 strands of hair (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and verifying results. For EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair might be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
There are four fundamental steps in the lab processing of drug testing results: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where the sample is initially input into the laboratory’s system. Verification of the sample’s seal and shipment integrity takes place, a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and any needed additional data that is not part of the electronic chain of custody is entered.
Screening performs an initial, rapid review for prohibited drugs. Though Screening serves as an economical way to preliminarily rule out drug presence in most samples, a screen yielding a positive result necessitates verification to ensure it is admissible in judicial settings. If Screening results are presumptively positive, a subsequent confirmation is necessary.
In instances of a presumptively positive sample during Screening, additional hair is collected from the initial sample and set up for Extraction. Here, drug compounds are separated from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing one of the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. The presumptive positive specimens undergo washing before confirmation if required. Every phase from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is misleading, as the testing process evaluates the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
When it comes to drug testing in Sabula, IA, hair follicle testing stands out for its superior detection capabilities compared to more traditional urine tests. Why choose hair testing? Hair follicle tests offer a broader detection window and yield more reliable results, deterring attempts to beat the test. Benefits include:
One noteworthy feature of hair follicle testing in Sabula, IA, is its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use over spans reaching up to 90 days, this method presents a complete profile of an individual’s substance history. For organizations, this extended observation period is invaluable for assessing the historical consumption patterns of employees or applicants thoroughly.
Hair follicle tests in Sabula, IA, offer a reliable and tamper-resistant method for drug testing, significantly mitigating risks of sample alteration. Unlike urine tests, hair samples are steadfast against adulteration attempts, thus providing organizations with undeniable results that can be trusted unconditionally for verifying compliance and assessing substance use history.
Nationwide and local testing centers around Sabula, IA, ensure accessibility to hassle-free, convenient hair follicle drug tests. The widespread presence of facilities allows individuals to easily access services without needing extensive travel. Convenience is paramount, with quick and simplified testing available wherever you might be located.
For residents of Sabula, IA, hair follicle testing offers a simple and confidential process from ordering to receiving results. Clients can be assured of their privacy, guided through a straightforward testing experience. Commitment to confidentiality ensures that both companies and individuals can undergo tests with peace, knowing their privacy is respected throughout the process.
In Sabula, IA, competitive pricing and swift processing time are pillars of our hair follicle testing services. Providing value for organizations of diverse sizes, our cost-effective structures combined with our fast turnaround time offer companies peace of mind. Investing in our services means benefiting from excellent customer value and efficient test processing.
In Sabula, IA, hair follicle drug testing is celebrated for offering rapid and precise results. This method’s high accuracy ensures detection of substance use, generating reliable data rapidly. With quick processing times and robust detection capabilities, our clients can trust they receive accurate reports. Timely and trustworthy results provide assurance for situations requiring substance testing.
In Sabula, IA, employers gain peace of mind by leveraging hair follicle testing for ensuring compliance with drug-free work environments. This testing approach enhances workplace safety and diminishes the probability of legal incidents related to drug use. Employers enforce policies confidently, knowing they adhere to regulations and standards while fostering a secure workplace.
