Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol use. Through capturing biomarkers in the fiber structure of a growing hair strand, hair reflects a long-standing record of substance use. When collected near the scalp, it can offer approximately a 3-month detection window for alcohol and other substances. The collection procedure for hair is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A sample of 1.5 inches involving around 200 strands of hair (comparable to the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and verification. For EtG testing, additional panels, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler’s measurement scale. Should scalp hair be unattainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. References to head hair specifically indicate scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, and so forth).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result is carried out in four fundamental steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning initiates the processing of a specimen within a laboratory’s framework. This stage involves validating the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any supplementary data entry required that isn't covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs an initial swift examination for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for it to stand in legal proceedings. Any samples that are tentatively positive during Screening must undergo an additional confirmation check.
Should a sample be tentatively positive during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. At this point, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations significantly lower than in alternative methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing one of the most challenging methodologies to conduct.
Any positive Screening result undergoes Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples presumed positive are cleansed prior to confirmation if necessary. Each step in the laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Traer, IA, hair follicle testing outshines urine tests in detecting substance use. Hair testing offers a broader detection window, ensuring better accuracy and reliability compared to urine analysis. Employers favor hair tests for their inability to be easily manipulated, providing a more precise measure of substance history.
Benefits of Hair Testing
In Traer, IA, hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window of up to 90 days, providing a detailed substance history. This long timeline gives employers insights into an individual's past drug usage, enhancing informed decision-making and workplace safety.
Extended Detection Advantages:
Hair follicle tests in Traer, IA, present a tamper-resistant method, significantly reducing the likelihood of sample alteration. The integrity of the test is maintained, providing reliable data that is difficult to question.
Reliability Benefits:
With convenient nationwide testing locations, including local options in Traer, IA, accessing hair testing services is straightforward and hassle-free. Employers and individuals benefit from the easy availability of testing centers across the country.
Testing Location Benefits:
The hair follicle testing process in Traer, IA, is simple and confidential. From ordering to obtaining results, each step ensures privacy and ease, addressing any concerns regarding the testing procedure's simplicity.
Confidential Testing Process:
Offering competitive pricing and rapid turnaround in Traer, IA, hair testing provides excellent value for companies. Fast processing times and affordability make it an attractive option for businesses seeking economical solutions.
Affordable Services Benefits:
Fast, accurate, and reliable results are crucial in Traer, IA. Hair follicle drug tests deliver precision and speed unmatched by other methods. They boast high sensitivity in detecting drug usage, making them a preferred option for those seeking dependable outcomes.
Hair Testing Efficacy:
Employers in Traer, IA, achieve compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing. This method supports companies in adhering to drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks, and fostering workplace safety.
Compliance Benefits:
