Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline of alcohol and drug history as biomarkers are embedded in the fibers of the hair as it grows. By collecting hair near the scalp, it's possible to achieve a detection period of up to around 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch piece of about 200 hair strands (roughly the girth of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp amounts to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional assessments, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, it is advisable to use 150mg of the hair. The use of a jeweler’s scale for weighing is suggested. If there's no scalp hair available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used instead. By 'head hair', we specifically mean hair from the scalp, while 'body hair' covers any other hair types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
There are four principal steps in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the first handling of a sample within a laboratory's system. This step involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any further data entry not available in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid screening for illicit drugs. Though it is a cost-efficient way to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be valid for court. Samples that test as presumptive positives in Screening require follow-up confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests as presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating a presumptive positive are washed before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 standards for accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often mistaken for "hair follicle tests," the examination is conducted on the hair strand and not the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Nashville, KS
Hair testing offers enhanced detection accuracy over traditional urine tests. This method's superior reliability allows for consistent results that employers and authorities find invaluable. By opting for hair analysis, the detection of substance use is significantly improved, presenting a clearer view of an individual's history.
Extended Detection Window in Nashville, KS
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to track drug use over an extended period—up to 90 days. This provides employers with a detailed overview of an employee's or candidate's substance use history, thereby enhancing decision-making processes based on comprehensive data.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Nashville, KS
Hair follicle tests significantly minimize the risk of sample adulteration. This method offers dependable and unquestionable outcomes, assuring employers of the integrity of the testing process. The reduced possibility of tampering strengthens the reliability of the results obtained.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Nashville, KS
Accessing our testing facilities nationwide simplifies the process for both individuals and employers. In Nashville, KS, and beyond, our widespread centers ensure that testing is quick, straightforward, and hassle-free, thus accommodating various geographical needs efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Nashville, KS
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is designed to be both simple and confidential. This addresses any privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use, enabling users to engage with the process with confidence and discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Nashville, KS
Our competitive pricing structures coupled with rapid turnaround times offer added value to companies of all sizes. In Nashville, KS, Accredited Drug Testing guarantees excellent pricing options that provide both peace of mind and value, making hair follicle testing a viable choice for many.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Nashville, KS
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and speed, providing high accuracy in detecting substance use. Unlike other methods, they deliver results that employers and individuals can rely on. In Nashville, KS, these tests ensure prompt outcomes without compromising on the veracity of the data presented.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nashville, KS
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing by ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This reduces potential legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind and fostering a secure working environment.
