Hair Follicle Drug Testing - West Bend, IA

What it is, How it works

The process of hair testing has gained recognition as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers as the hair strand grows, offering a prolonged history of substance use. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window extending up to three months for alcohol and drugs. This method is straightforward to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to ship.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing around 200 strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for evaluation and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and screenings exceeding 10 panels, a sample size of 150mg is advised. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not obtainable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain strictly to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning constitutes the initial integration of a sample into a lab's framework. This step includes verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial, rapid assessment for drug presence. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in the majority of samples, any positive finding must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo further confirmation.

For specimens with presumptive positives in the Screening phase, additional hair is selected from the initial sample and processed for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are concentrated from hair at levels much lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug screening.

Positive screenings are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are washed as needed prior to confirmation. The entire laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which offer shorter detection frames.
• Increased difficulty to tamper: Cheating a hair drug test is notably challenging, enhancing result reliability.
• Historical usage data: It reveals usage patterns over a span of time, not merely recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: It typically takes 5-7 days for drugs to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than alternative testing methods.
• Result variations: Elements like hair color and individual rates of hair growth may impact drug metabolite concentration in the hair.

Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," the procedure examines the hair strand itself rather than the underlying follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in West Bend, IA In the debate over drug testing methods, hair follicle tests clearly outperform traditional urine tests. They offer enhanced detection accuracy by screening for a wider range of substances over a longer period, essential for employers and individuals prioritizing safety and compliance.

Hair testing's longer detection window and reduced risk of tampering give it an edge over urine tests. This ensures a more reliable picture of substance use, making it indispensable for organizations with stringent drug-free policies in West Bend.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in West Bend, IA Hair follicle drug tests are exceptional for their capacity to detect drug use over an extended period, often up to 90 days. This long detection span provides employers with a comprehensive perspective on an individual's substance use history, which is crucial in making informed hiring and compliance decisions.

Such an extended detection capability is instrumental during the hiring and monitoring processes, offering a more holistic view of an employee's or candidate's drug use patterns and history in West Bend.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in West Bend, IA Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of tampering, providing results that stakeholders can trust. Unlike other testing methods, these tests are difficult to adulterate, ensuring the integrity of the testing process in West Bend.

With their built-in resistance to manipulation, these tests give employers peace of mind when enforcing a drug-free workplace. They provide a secure and reliable way to affirm substance-free work environments.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in West Bend, IA Our testing facilities are spread nationwide, with local offerings in West Bend, simplifying access to drug testing services. This network ensures that testing is quick and straightforward, minimizing the hassle for both employers and individuals.

The flexibility and reach of our locations mean that your testing needs are met efficiently and without complication, providing ease and convenience at every turn.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in West Bend, IA Our testing procedure is designed to be straightforward and confidential, addressing user concerns regarding privacy and ease of access. The process of ordering, taking tests, and receiving results is seamless in West Bend, guaranteeing that privacy is respected throughout.

We ensure that confidentiality remains paramount, safeguarding individuals' personal information while providing high-quality service.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in West Bend, IA Our competitive pricing coupled with quick turnaround times delivers outstanding value for businesses of all sizes. We ensure that efficient service does not come at a premium, enabling businesses in West Bend to conduct essential tests without financial strain.

Employers benefit from timely results and budget-conscious solutions, encouraging a safe working environment without breaking the bank.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in West Bend, IA Hair follicle drug tests provide unmatched precision in identifying substance use. With rapid processing times, these tests quickly deliver results compared to older methods, ensuring timely and trustworthy data. They are a superior choice in West Bend for those prioritizing accuracy and reliability.

The high accuracy rate of these tests is largely due to their rigorous analysis methods. This ensures that the results not only stand the test of scrutiny but also provide clarity for making informed decisions about hiring or other critical processes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in West Bend, IA For employers, hair follicle testing can be a key element in maintaining a drug-free workplace. By ensuring compliance with policies, this method reduces legal risks whilst enhancing safety and productivity, providing peace of mind for businesses in West Bend.

Such diligence in testing protocols helps avoid costly consequences of non-compliance or substance abuse incidents, affirming a commitment to workplace safety and employer protection.

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