Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair holds a long-term record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers up to approximately a three-month detection period for alcohol and drug use. Hair is easy to gather, somewhat hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch piece consisting of around 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or evaluations exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to use 150mg of the sample. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a similar amount of body hair might be taken. In discussions of head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary stages in the laboratory processing of a drug test outcome encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a specimen into a laboratory’s framework. This includes confirming the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary swift assessment for drugs of misuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient means to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a favorable screen needs validation to be court-acceptable. Any samples showing presumptive positives in Screening necessitate a further confirmation step.
If a sample indicates a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, extra hair from the original sample is prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing the most complex technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if required. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Spirit Lake, IA: When it comes to detecting substances, hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests through superior accuracy and reliability. Hair tests are revered for their extensive detection period, spanning up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which are limited in their detection capabilities. This broad spectrum analysis provides a more comprehensive view of an individual’s drug history.
Extended Detection Window in Spirit Lake, IA: One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its extensive detection window, covering up to 90 days. This prolonged period gives employers a holistic view of an individual's substance history, providing insights beyond what conventional urine tests can offer. Such depth in detection assists in making informed decisions regarding employment and substance use management.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Spirit Lake, IA: Hair follicle tests are renowned for significantly reducing the risk of sample tampering. This testing method ensures the authenticity of the specimen by minimizing potential for adulteration, thus providing reliable results that are difficult to dispute. The integrity of the sample collection process further enhances trust in the outcomes and decisions derived from test results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Spirit Lake, IA: Our expansive network of nationwide testing centers provides accessibility and convenience to individuals in need of hair follicle drug testing. Ensuring hassle-free access to our services, these locations guarantee prompt and comprehensive testing solutions that are spread across strategic points, making the process efficient for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Spirit Lake, IA: The process of ordering, undergoing, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential. We prioritize privacy, ensuring each step is seamless and secure. Such emphasis on discretion reassures clients of the confidentiality of their information, making the testing process stress-free and easy to navigate.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Spirit Lake, IA: Our competitive pricing strategies and rapid processing times underscore the value we offer to businesses of all sizes. We provide cost-effective yet efficient services, ensuring that companies maintain their budgets without compromising on the quality of drug testing. This approach maximizes value and assurance for our clientele.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Spirit Lake, IA: Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed. These tests ensure high accuracy in the identification of substance use, providing quick findings that stakeholders can trust. The rapidity with which results are delivered allows for swift decision-making processes, crucial for maintaining policy adherence and operational efficiency.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Spirit Lake, IA: Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, ensuring compliance and reducing legal liabilities. By implementing such comprehensive testing measures, employers enhance workplace safety and foster an environment of trust and accountability. This peace of mind is essential for fostering a culture of reliability and security.
