Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Woodburn, IA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within its growing fibers. When clipped near the scalp, hair can reveal a usage history of approximately three months for both alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, tests exceeding 10 panels, or additional analyses, 150mg of hair is advised. We suggest weighing the hair sample with a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount from body hair can be utilized. By "head hair," we mean exclusively scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses facial, axillary, and other types.

Process Overview

There are four primary stages in lab processing a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

In Accessioning, a sample is initially entered into the laboratory system. This involves confirming the sample was properly sealed and transported, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. While it is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result from Screening must be verified to be valid in court. Samples that test positive presumptively in Screening require further confirmation.

Should a sample show a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. Drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.

Confirmation of any Screening positive occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positives are cleaned before confirmation as required. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subject to review under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests identify drug use for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter detection periods.
• Resistant to tampering: Hair drug tests are difficult to manipulate, ensuring reliable results.
• Reveals usage patterns: It outlines drug consumption patterns over time, rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Lacks recent detection: Drugs become detectable in hair after about 5-7 days.
• Higher expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other testing methods.
• Result variability: Hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the examination actually focuses on the hair strand, not the underlying follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Woodburn, IA

• Hair tests offer superior detection accuracy over urine tests.
• They are known for more consistent reliability.
• While urine tests detect recent use, hair tests provide a longer history.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Woodburn, IA

• Hair follicle testing can reveal drug use for up to 90 days.
• This offers a comprehensive view of substance history.
• Employers gain valuable insights into applicants' habits.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Woodburn, IA

• Hair follicle tests greatly minimize risk of sample tampering.
• This testing method ensures reliable and doubt-free results.
• The integrity of tests remains uncompromised.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Woodburn, IA

• Nationwide centers ensure easy access to testing services.
• Local facilities in Woodburn make testing hassle-free.
• Experience quick and convenient testing processes.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Woodburn, IA

• The process is streamlined for ease and privacy.
• Ordering and receiving results is straightforward.
• Confidentiality of personal information is maintained.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Woodburn, IA

• Competitive pricing offers value for all business sizes.
• Swift turnaround times ensure prompt results.
• Get excellent service without compromising on cost.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Woodburn, IA

• Hair follicle drug tests deliver precise and quick results.
• They boast exceptional accuracy in detecting substance use.
• This method ensures dependable outcomes, important for decision-making.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Woodburn, IA

• Ensures adherence to workplace drug policies.
• Reduces legal risks for businesses.
• Enhances workplace safety significantly.

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