Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for revealing drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a historical record of alcohol and drug usage, as biomarkers are embedded within the hair fibers as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair samples enable a detection period of up to around three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, resistant to adulteration, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample size for analysis consists of a 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil), yielding approximately 100mg of hair, optimal for both preliminary screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG analysis or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. We suggest utilizing a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement of the sample. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent weight of body hair can serve as a substitute. When mentioned, head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial hair and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial sample processing in the lab's system, ensuring the sample is appropriately sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary drug abuse analysis. Although Screening efficiently eliminates drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated for legal proceedings. Any samples yielding a presumptive positive in Screening require confirmatory testing.
If Screening indicates a potential positive, additional hair is extracted from the sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are separated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting hair testing's complexity.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all samples marked presumptively positive are washed as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditations.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Hair testing supersedes urine tests in Lowell, KS, offering a greater level of accuracy and reliability. With an extended detection window and comprehensive results, hair tests provide a superior method for identifying substance use.
In Lowell, KS, hair follicle testing extends the detection window for drug use to up to 90 days. This advantage offers employers a broader understanding of an individual's substance history, ensuring informed employment decisions.
Hair follicle testing in Lowell, KS, presents a tamper-resistant option. The collection process makes it nearly impossible to adulterate samples, guaranteeing the integrity and accuracy of the results.
We offer convenient testing options in Lowell, KS, through our nationwide network. Whether local or across the country, our centers ensure swift and hassle-free access to testing services.
Our process in Lowell, KS, prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to taking the test, and receiving results, we ensure every step respects privacy and provides ease of use.
With affordable pricing and quick turnaround, our Lowell, KS testing services deliver excellent value. We strive to accommodate businesses of all sizes, with competitive pricing structures.
Hair follicle drug tests in Lowell, KS, deliver fast, accurate, and reliable results. These tests excel in detecting substance use due to their meticulous analysis process, providing the highest level of precision.
Employers in Lowell, KS, benefit from using hair follicle testing to maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method reduces legal risks and enhances safety, providing assurance and peace of mind.
