Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term information on the presence of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. By taking a sample close to the scalp, one can potentially obtain a detection timeframe of up to around three months for alcohol and drug use. Hair sample collection is straightforward, comparatively hard to tamper with, and conveniently shipped.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches, including roughly 200 strands near the scalp (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness), equates to 100mg, which is the recommended sample amount for testing and confirmation purposes. For extended testing, such as EtG, supplementary tests, or panels exceeding 10, a quantity of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. In cases where scalp hair is not present, an equivalent weight of body hair might be gathered. By "head hair," we specifically mean scalp hair. Other hair types, including facial and axillary, fall under the category of body hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis for drug testing involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the primary task of integrating a sample into a laboratory’s data system. This step ensures that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, allocates a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any pending data entries not addressed by an automated chain of custody process.
Screening serves as an initial evaluation for potential drug presence. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive finding must be corroborated for legal admissibility. Any Screening samples showing presumptive positivity necessitate further validation.
Upon finding a sample presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. This phase involves removing drugs from hair at a substantially lower concentration than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), posing a greater challenge in execution.
Verification of any positive Screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumed positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as required. The complete laboratory protocol, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair shaft, not the underlying follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Cheney, KS
Hair testing boasts superior accuracy and reliability over traditional urine testing methods. Employing a more extended detection window, hair tests provide a more comprehensive understanding of drug use history. This makes hair tests particularly valuable for employers enforcing drug-free policies, offering insights traditional urine tests may miss.
Extended Detection Window in Cheney, KS
Hair follicle tests offer an extensive detection window, identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This expansive timeframe gives employers and substance abuse professionals a broad view of an individual's substance history, aiding in robust hiring decisions and compliance evaluations. The extensive coverage makes it a valuable tool in maintaining safety standards.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Cheney, KS
Minimizing the risk of sample tampering, hair follicle testing stands as a reliable alternative in Cheney. Its method virtually eliminates adulteration concerns, presenting results that are both trustworthy and incontrovertible. The deterring effect this has on potential tamperers strengthens overall confidence in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Cheney, KS
Accredited Drug Testing ensures accessible testing with numerous centers nationwide, including Cheney. This network offers quick and hassle-free service to meet diverse needs. The local presence in Cheney is particularly beneficial, providing community-based solutions while maintaining the extensive reach of national support.
Simple, Confidential Process in Cheney, KS
The drug testing process in Cheney is designed to be simple yet confidential, reassuring individuals about their privacy. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every step is streamlined for ease of use. The straightforward approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring that the process remains efficient and respectful of all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Cheney, KS
Cheney businesses benefit from competitive pricing structures and rapid turnaround times offered by hair follicle testing services. This cost-effective solution supports companies of all sizes, delivering excellent value without sacrificing accuracy. Quick results ensure prompt decision-making processes, enhancing operational efficacy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Cheney, KS
Hair follicle drug tests in Cheney provide swift and precise results. Known for their accuracy, these tests reliably detect traces of substance use. Employers and professionals can trust the legitimacy of these results, making hair follicle tests a preferred choice for ensuring workplace compliance. Rapid results help in making informed decisions efficiently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Cheney, KS
Employers in Cheney can maintain peace of mind and ensure compliance with drug-free policies through hair follicle testing. By doing so, they reduce legal risks and bolster workplace safety. Implementing such robust testing demonstrates commitment to safety and law adherence, assuring all involved of the organization’s integrity.
