Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. By collecting hair near the scalp, it can be analyzed for up to about three months of alcohol and drug use. The collection process for hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is considered optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or ones exceeding 10 panels, it's advisable to collect 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler's scale to measure the sample's weight is recommended. If scalp hair is not an option, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. The term 'head hair' specifically denotes scalp hair, whereas 'body hair' includes all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the lab's system. This step verifies that proper sealing and shipping methods were followed, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary, rapid check for substance abuse. Screening provides a cost-efficient method to identify the absence of drug use in most samples, though a positive result must be confirmed to be used in legal settings. Samples that presumably test positive in Screening are subject to secondary confirmation.
Should a sample find presumptive positives during Screening, additional hair is used from the initial collection for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are sourced from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screenings pose more complexity.
Confirmation of any posit for screening is managed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positivity undergo a washing as deemed necessary before confirmation. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the assessment actually involves analyzing the hair shaft, not the follicle located under the scalp.
In Saint Marks, KS, hair follicle testing boasts significant advantages over urine testing. It offers unparalleled accuracy and reliability in drug detection, setting it apart as a superior method.
Hair follicle testing in Saint Marks, KS offers a long detection window, enabling employers to investigate drug use history effectively. This method reveals substance use as far back as 90 days.
In Saint Marks, KS, hair follicle tests are distinguished for their resistance to tampering, providing assurance in their outcomes. The nature of hair samples makes alteration difficult.
Accredited Drug Testing in Saint Marks, KS simplifies access to services with numerous nationwide and local testing centers. This ensures seamless integration of testing needs into busy schedules.
Saint Marks, KS residents appreciate the straightforward and discreet hair testing process offered by Accredited Drug Testing. From ordering tests to receiving results, every step prioritizes privacy and ease.
In Saint Marks, KS, Accredited Drug Testing presents cost-effective solutions with rapid result delivery. Their competitive pricing ensures businesses of all sizes benefit from thorough testing services.
The appeal of hair follicle drug testing in Saint Marks, KS stems from its ability to consistently deliver fast and accurate results. The reliability of this method in detecting drugs far exceeds traditional testing techniques.
For businesses in Saint Marks, KS, hair follicle testing fosters compliance with drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks. This testing method bolsters workplace safety effectively.
