Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a historical record of alcohol and drug intake by integrating biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers. When cut near the scalp, hair offers a detection timeframe of up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to alter, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion of approximately 200 hair strands (around the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a sample of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent amount of body hair should be collected. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair. "Body hair" includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial processing of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This includes verifying that the sample was sealed and shipped properly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial quick check for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective way to rule out drug usage on the majority of samples, a positive screen needs to be confirmed to be admissible in court. Any samples that are presumptively positive in Screening do require a secondary confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive in the Screening stage, more hair is pulled from the initial specimen and prepared for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than in other methodologies (ex. urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most difficult methodology to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation as needed. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the assessment actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hudson, KS
Hair follicle testing provides a superior level of detection accuracy compared to more traditional urine tests. These tests offer enhanced reliability, capturing a thorough history of substance use and eliminating the likelihood of false negatives, thus providing a substantial advantage in screening processes in Hudson.
Extended Detection Window in Hudson, KS
One of the outstanding benefits of hair follicle testing is its capability to unearth drug usage over an extended timeframe, reaching up to 90 days. This comprehensive detection window enables employers in Hudson to gain a full picture of substance usage history, making it an invaluable tool in employment screenings.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hudson, KS
The hair follicle testing method significantly curtails the possibility of sample adulteration. By implementing rigorous collection procedures, this testing ensures that results remain untampered and trustworthy, providing reliable outcomes indispensable for any scrutinizing workplace in Hudson.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hudson, KS
Accredited Drug Testing presents a network of nationwide centers that streamline access to testing services. This ensures that clients in Hudson enjoy a hassle-free experience, with quick and efficient access to essential drug testing facilities located conveniently across the nation.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hudson, KS
The process for ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. Clients in Hudson can engage in the testing process with ease, assured that their privacy is respected, enjoying a seamless interaction from initial contact to results delivery.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hudson, KS
We offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times for hair follicle drug tests. This ensures that companies of all sizes in Hudson receive excellent value for their investment, aligning budget-friendly solutions with peace of mind through prompt and accurate testing outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hudson, KS
Hair follicle drug tests offer remarkable precision in detecting substance use. With advanced technology and careful analysis, these tests deliver fast and accurate outcomes. Their reliability ensures trustworthy results, making them an essential choice for those needing the most dependable drug testing options in Hudson.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hudson, KS
Deploying hair follicle drug testing fortifies compliance with workplace drug-free policies. It mitigates legal risks and cultivates a safe working environment. Employers in Hudson can relish peace of mind, knowing they adhere to mandated safety standards and have heightened control over workplace safety.
