Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now acknowledged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair offers a lengthy review of alcohol and drug consumption by capturing biomarkers within the strands as hair grows. When taken from near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use within a roughly 3-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easily transportable.
Collect a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil), closest to the scalp, to acquire 100mg of hair, suitable for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg collection is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn't accessible, equivalent amounts of body hair can be gathered. By head hair, we imply only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing for a drug test result mainly consists of four steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is processed into a lab’s system, including verifying proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any extra data entry not supplied via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While it's economical for dismissing drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated to be court-admissible. Samples that are potentially positive during Screening need a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction, where drugs are extracted from hair at a markedly lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology.
Positive screening confirmations are performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Edgerton, KS
Hair follicle tests provide superior detection capabilities compared to conventional urine tests. With an ability to identify a broader range of substances over longer periods, this method boasts enhanced accuracy and reliability. These features make it a preferred option for employers demanding accurate and dependable testing solutions.
Extended Detection Window in Edgerton, KS
One of the core advantages of hair follicle testing is its prolonged detection window, which can capture drug use history for up to 90 days. This extended timeframe allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance use history, thus making more informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Edgerton, KS
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample tampering, offering reliable results that are difficult to question. Such tests use an observed collection process, making it nearly impossible for individuals to alter the results, thereby ensuring the integrity of the findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Edgerton, KS
Our testing services are conveniently located nationwide, making it easy for clients in Edgerton, KS, to access quick and efficient testing. This network of facilities ensures that you can obtain the tests you need without hassle, providing both accessibility and peace of mind.
Simple, Confidential Process in Edgerton, KS
The process for ordering and taking a hair follicle test is straightforward and confidential. Clients can rest assured that their privacy is prioritized, with results conveyed swiftly. The ease of use supports a seamless testing experience, addressing both privacy concerns and efficiencies.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Edgerton, KS
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times offer companies excellent value for money. Regardless of size, organizations can rely on our services for cost-effective testing that doesn't compromise on quality or speed, thereby reinforcing peace of mind in decision-making processes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Edgerton, KS
Hair follicle testing offers rapid and precise outcomes for detecting substance use. This method excels with its quick turnaround and high accuracy, making it the preferred choice for those needing reliable drug testing results. With the capacity to detect a wide range of substances, hair testing stands out in ensuring comprehensive assessments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Edgerton, KS
Leveraging hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free regulations, mitigating legal risks and improving overall workplace safety. Employers benefit from knowing they are using a trusted method that enhances security and assurance in maintaining a drug-free environment.
