Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair strands capture biomarkers, preserving a long-term record of alcohol and drug consumption. When hair samples are taken close to the scalp, they can reveal a substance use history of up to about 90 days. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil), and closest to the scalp provides an optimal 100mg for assessment and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels over 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a corresponding quantity of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair specifically concern scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary incorporation of a sample into a lab's system, which includes checking that the sample is securely sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial evaluation for drug misuse. While Screening provides an economical means to eliminate drug usage in most samples, any positive findings necessitate confirmation to be legally acceptable. Samples yielding presumptive positive results in Screening require further confirmation.
In cases where initial Screening results are presumptive positives, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. Drugs are removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening a complex process.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used for confirming any positive Screening results. Preceding Confirmation, positive samples are washed as needed. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab procedure is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Terril, IA, hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing when considering accuracy and reliability. It provides a best-in-class detection rate for substances, uncovering usage patterns that urine tests might miss.
This testing method highlights its superiority by being virtually tamper-proof and providing a comprehensive view of substance use over an extended period, unlike traditional methods.
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Terril, IA is its extended detection window. This method can identify drug use up to 90 days prior, offering a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history.
Employers benefit greatly from this longer window, gaining insights into the long-term habits of applicants or staff, leading to more informed employment decisions.
In Terril, IA, the hair follicle test is recognized for its robust resistance to tampering. Its collection method ensures that samples remain pure and untampered, delivering trustworthy and consistent results.
Reduced risk of adulteration enhances the credibility of the testing process, making it a favored option for those serious about maintaining accurate drug testing standards.
The convenience of nationwide testing centers, including local solutions in Terril, IA, ensures easy and hassle-free access to testing services, meeting a range of needs efficiently.
Quick and straightforward access to testing facilities allows individuals and businesses to take full advantage of the services offered, without unnecessary travel or inconvenience.
The process of ordering, conducting, and obtaining results from hair follicle testing in Terril, IA is both simple and confidential. Comprehensive privacy measures ensure user comfort and confidence.
From start to finish, the emphasis on ease of use and privacy addresses any concerns users might have, making it an attractive option for discreet and straightforward testing.
Terril, IA enjoys the benefit of affordable pricing models and quick turnaround when it comes to hair follicle testing. This enables businesses of all sizes to avail top-tier testing without financial strain.
Value for money is prioritized, and clients receive fast results, providing reassurance and reliable insights efficiently and cost-effectively.
Hair follicle testing in Terril, IA offers both speed and precision, making it a top choice for detecting substance use. The meticulous nature of these tests ensures high accuracy in identifying various substances.
Thanks to advanced techniques, these tests deliver results swiftly, ensuring that individuals and organizations can make informed decisions promptly and efficiently.
In Terril, IA, utilizing hair follicle testing allows employers to comply with drug-free workplace policies confidently. It minimizes legal risks while promoting safety and integrity within the organizational setting.
Employers can rest assured that using this reliable method helps maintain a safe environment and supports compliant operations without the repercussions of failing to address substance abuse.