Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Holton, KS

What it is, How it works

Hair analyses are increasingly recognized as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term records of substances by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers. When cut near the scalp, hair samples can offer nearly a 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch section consisting of around 200 strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered an optimal sample for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, extra tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing is advisable. If scalp hair is not an option, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we solely refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The principal stages involved in a lab's drug test processing include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning encompasses the initial handling of a sample in a laboratory setup. It verifies the sample was adequately sealed and dispatched, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening comprises an initial brief examination for drugs of concern. While Screening is a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug presence in most samples, any positive results must undergo confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptive positive samples in Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.

If a sample is presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction preparation. During this step, drugs are withdrawn from hair at markedly lower levels than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), underscoring why hair drug testing is notably complex to execute.

GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is employed for validating any positive screening outcomes. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as deemed necessary. The complete lab sequence from Accessioning through Confirmation operates under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug analyses can reveal drug use for up to 90 days, surpassing the shorter detection periods of urine tests.
• Enhanced accuracy: Hair drug analysis is tough to deceive, enhancing result accuracy.
• Historical insights: It offers a timeline of drug usage over time, not solely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to identify recent use: Drugs become apparent in hair approximately after 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug analyses generally incur higher costs than alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and personal differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentrations within the hair.

Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Holton, KS

• Hair testing provides a superior accuracy level compared to traditional urine tests.
• It offers a longer detection window, capturing a comprehensive drug use history.
• This approach is nearly tamper-proof, reducing the chances of inaccurate results.
• Employers benefit from more reliable insights into potential substance use.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Holton, KS

• Hair follicle tests detect drugs for up to 90 days, offering a broader view of usage patterns.
• Employers can assess applicants' or employees' substance histories comprehensively.
• This extended window ensures more informed decision-making processes.
• Companies gain insights that extend beyond recent use, enhancing workplace safety.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Holton, KS

• Hair follicle tests significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration.
• Reliable results provide unquestionable accuracy in drug use detection.
• Observed collections further limit tampering chances, ensuring integrity.
• The technique's robustness offers confidence in testing outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Holton, KS

• Our extensive network of testing centers provides convenient access.
• Nationwide coverage ensures quick, hassle-free service accessibility.
• Local centers in Holton, KS facilitate the testing process for all.
• Easy access means minimal disruption to daily activities.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Holton, KS

• The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results is straightforward.
• Confidentiality is paramount, protecting personal privacy rights.
• Simple procedures ensure a hassle-free user experience.
• Concerns about privacy and ease of use are effectively addressed.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Holton, KS

• Our competitive pricing structures offer great value for companies.
• Quick turnaround ensures efficient processing of test results.
• Cost-effectiveness is paired with excellent service delivery.
• Businesses of all sizes receive significant benefits from this affordability.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Holton, KS

• The hair follicle drug test stands out with its quick and reliable results.
• Precision is ensured, with tests detecting substance use accurately.
• The streamlined process enhances efficiency, making it a trusted method for rapid assessments.
• Users benefit from substantial accuracy, crucial for immediate decision-making needs.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Holton, KS

• Hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies.
• It minimizes legal risks, maintaining compliance regulations.
• The method enhances workplace safety, fostering a secure environment.
• Employers gain peace of mind through predictable, reliable results.

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