Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective instrument for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a historical record of alcohol and other drugs by incorporating biomarkers within the growing strand's fibers. When collected near the scalp, it provides roughly a 3-month detection window for substances. Collection is straightforward, alteration is challenging, and shipping is convenient.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of about 200 hair strands (around the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests involving more than 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent mass of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, and so on).
Process Overview
There are four principal steps in the lab processing of a drug test: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. It ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers an initial, rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to discount drug usage in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to hold up in court. Presumptive positive samples in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample indicate a positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. This process isolates drugs from hair at concentrations markedly lower than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from the screening is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are cleaned as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the evaluation focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lebanon Junction, KY
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing presents numerous benefits. It provides superior detection accuracy and reliability, capturing drug use over extended periods. Employers receive comprehensive insights into an individual’s drug history, essential for maintaining workplace integrity and safety.
Extended Detection Window in Lebanon Junction, KY
The prime advantage of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window. In Lebanon Junction, KY, this method identifies drug use up to 90 days prior, offering a thorough view of an employee's substance history. Employers gain a detailed perspective, valuable for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lebanon Junction, KY
Hair follicle tests significantly curtail the risk of sample tampering. This reliability makes it a preferred choice for assured results in Lebanon Junction, KY. By minimizing the chances of adulteration, businesses and legal entities benefit from unquestionable outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lebanon Junction, KY
Our accessible nationwide network includes centers in Lebanon Junction, KY. We provide efficient, hassle-free testing services, ensuring ease of access. Whether local or across the nation, our centers are ready to serve you promptly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lebanon Junction, KY
The hair follicle drug testing process is straightforward and confidential in Lebanon Junction, KY. From order to result receipt, every step prioritizes privacy and ease. We address concerns by ensuring a discreet and user-friendly experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lebanon Junction, KY
We offer competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for hair follicle drug testing in Lebanon Junction, KY. This combination provides excellent value, allowing businesses of all sizes to benefit from reliable testing without breaking the bank.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lebanon Junction, KY
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and precision. In Lebanon Junction, KY, they offer a high degree of accuracy, ensuring reliable detection of substance use with swift results, making them an excellent choice for those who prioritize prompt and precise testing outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lebanon Junction, KY
Hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies for employers in Lebanon Junction, KY. This approach reduces legal risks and enhances employee safety, offering peace of mind through reliable substance use monitoring.
