Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly perceived as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window for substances spanning up to about 3 months. Its collection is straightforward, it is relatively hard to alter, and it is convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for screen and confirmation. For EtG additions and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair can be taken. Head hair denotes scalp hair specifically, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four pivotal phases in processing a drug test result in the laboratory are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample handling within a lab's system. It involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported properly, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening comprises an initial, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Despite being a cost-effective approach to dismiss drug usage in most samples, a Screen positive needs confirmation to be valid in court. Samples deemed presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
In cases of presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at considerably lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening presents a significant challenge.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation as needed. The entirety of the lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination is conducted on the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Aliceville, KS
Hair follicle testing exceeds traditional urine tests by offering superior detection precision and reliability. In comparison, hair tests provide a more extended range of detection and are less susceptible to manipulation. The accuracy achieved through hair testing empowers employers to make informed decisions regarding substance use policies.
Extended Detection Window in Aliceville, KS
With hair follicle testing, substances can be detected over up to 90 days, vastly surpassing the capabilities of other testing methods. This extensive window allows employers in Aliceville to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's drug history. This depth of insight is invaluable for making informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Aliceville, KS
Hair follicle testing minimizes the risk of sample tampering, offering results that are both reliable and credible. By reducing the chances of sample adulteration, these tests ensure Aliceville organizations receive analysis outcomes they can trust implicitly, reinforcing the integrity of the substance evaluation process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Aliceville, KS
Thanks to our extensive network of testing centers, both nationwide and locally in Aliceville, accessing testing services is hassle-free. This availability not only ensures quick and easy testing processes but also adds significant convenience for all stakeholders involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Aliceville, KS
Our testing procedures are designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind, allowing for easy ordering, testing, and results retrieval. This process addresses privacy concerns and ensures ease of use, granting peace of mind to individuals and organizations throughout Aliceville.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Aliceville, KS
Our competitive pricing structures are tailored to offer excellent value across various company sizes, alongside quick turnaround times. This affirms our commitment to providing affordable and efficient service solutions, coupled with the peace of mind businesses in Aliceville seek.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Aliceville, KS
Hair follicle drug tests deliver remarkable precision and speed in identifying substance usage. Their high level of accuracy is what sets them apart, ensuring Aliceville residents receive fast and dependable outcomes when assessing drug use. Whether for occupational or legal needs, these tests provide the assurance of consistent and reliable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Aliceville, KS
Utilizing hair follicle tests ensure employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and bolstering workplace safety. This testing approach not only facilitates compliance but also provides peace of mind, knowing that all personnel holds to the highest safety standards.
