Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and drug biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When collected close to the scalp, hair can offer up to a three-month span for detecting alcohol and other drug use. Hair collection is straightforward, not easy to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample of 1.5 inches, or approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil width), nearest to the scalp will yield 100 mg of hair, which is the preferred sample amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150 mg of the sample is advisable. It's recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. Head hair references specifically scalp hair, while body hair pertains to all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory workflow for processing a drug test result consists of four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into a laboratory’s system. This phase includes confirming the sample was securely sealed and correctly shipped, generating a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finishing any further data input that isn't captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a primary, speedy check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to identify non-users in most samples, a positive result needs confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples with a presumptively positive Screening need additional confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, a portion of the original specimen is used for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs from hair at much lower levels than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of a positive screen is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Before confirmation, any samples that are presumptively positive are washed when necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed according to both the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Hair standards and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Carlisle, KY
In the realm of drug screening, hair follicle testing shines over traditional urine tests by offering superior accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can miss recent substance intake, hair tests provide a more comprehensive and long-term detection window, proving more effective for thorough examinations.
Extended Detection Window in Carlisle, KY
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use over an extended period, reaching back up to 90 days. This offers employers a clear and comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history, aiding informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Carlisle, KY
The robustness of hair follicle tests makes them highly tamper-resistant. Unlike other methods, they significantly lower the risk of sample tampering, ensuring that results remain reliable and valid, thereby maintaining integrity throughout the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Access in Carlisle, KY
Accredited Drug Testing ensures easy access to services through our network of testing centers spread nationwide. This facilitates quick and convenient testing for all clients, minimizing hassle and ensuring swift service delivery in Carlisle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Carlisle, KY
The use of hair follicle testing in Carlisle assures a simplified and discreet procedure from initiation to results delivery. Clients can rest assured in knowing their privacy remains a priority throughout the process, reducing associated concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround in Carlisle, KY
Our competitive pricing structure and rapid turnaround times deliver excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Accredited Drug Testing guarantees affordable and swift services without compromising accuracy, reinforcing peace of mind for our clients.
Fast and Accurate Results in Carlisle, KY
Hair follicle drug tests in Carlisle offer precision and swiftness, making them ideal for detecting substance use. Their high accuracy ensures that any traces of drugs are not missed, thus providing reliable results rapidly. This capability is crucial for entities seeking fast yet dependable testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Carlisle, KY
Using hair follicle testing facilitates compliance with stringent workplace drug policies, thus reducing legal exposure. Employers can enjoy enhanced peace of mind, knowing their workforce is being held to a safe and standard practice consistently.
