Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use. Hair offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug use for up to approximately three months. Its collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A 1.5-inch sample of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. A jeweler’s scale is suggested for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair solely pertain to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is processed into a laboratory’s system. This step includes confirming the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry if not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary fast check for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective method for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive result needs further confirmation to be admissible in court. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening must undergo a secondary verification.
If a sample tests positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than with other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring the challenge of performing hair drug screening.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often labeled as "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Republic, KS
In Republic, KS, hair follicle testing provides superior results compared to urine testing. It offers enhanced detection accuracy and reliability, making it a preferred choice for organizations aiming to maintain a drug-free environment.
Extended Detection Window in Republic, KS
Hair follicle testing provides a longer detection window of up to 90 days in Republic, KS, allowing employers a thorough understanding of an individual’s substance history. This approach gives a broader view compared to shorter-term tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Republic, KS
In Republic, KS, hair follicle tests are designed to minimize the risk of sample tampering, ensuring results are both reliable and difficult to challenge. This aspect makes hair testing a trusted method for detecting substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Republic, KS
Republic, KS, benefits from the widespread availability of our nationwide testing centers. These centers provide quick and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services, ensuring convenience for all users.
Simple, Confidential Process in Republic, KS
The hair follicle testing process in Republic, KS, is straightforward and respects privacy. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure is designed to be user-friendly and confidential, addressing any privacy concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Republic, KS
Republic, KS, offers competitive pricing for hair follicle testing, coupled with rapid turnaround times. This ensures excellent value, accommodating businesses of various sizes by providing them peace of mind and financial efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Republic, KS
Hair follicle testing in Republic, KS, offers swift and precise detection of substance use, surpassing traditional methods. The method's high accuracy ensures comprehensive results, making it a trusted option for those seeking fast and reliable testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Republic, KS
By incorporating hair follicle testing, employers in Republic, KS, can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This practice minimizes legal risks and contributes significantly to workplace safety.