Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting alcohol and drug usage. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding biomarkers in the fibers of the developing hair. When gathered close to the scalp, hair can offer roughly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to alter, and simple to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory’s framework. This process involves ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry not accounted for by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a preliminary quick evaluation for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to exclude drug use for the majority of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be accepted in legal proceedings. Any tentatively positive samples in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample show a tentative positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than in other approaches (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcomes is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests," the examination analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rolling Fields, KY
When comparing hair testing to conventional urine examinations, hair tests present superior detection and reliability. Their striking benefit lies in their capacity to identify long-term substance use, offering insights into patterns over months, contrasting with urine tests that are best for recent use.
Extended Detection Window in Rolling Fields, KY
Hair follicle tests excel in capturing a substance use profile over extended periods, up to 90 days. This lengthy window provides a comprehensive assessment of an individual's history with substance use, supporting employers in making informed decisions regarding candidates or employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rolling Fields, KY
The robustness of hair follicle testing significantly curtails the risk of tampering, producing results that are both reliable and unquestionable. This level of confidence in the testing outcome assures all stakeholders of the integrity and accuracy of the findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rolling Fields, KY
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers ensures fast and convenient access to drug testing services. In Rolling Fields, the ease and speed in accessing our centers allow for hassle-free scheduling, meeting the needs of both local and national clientele.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rolling Fields, KY
Ordering, administering, and retrieving test results is straightforward and confidential, addressing any privacy concerns. The process's simplicity ensures ease of use, making it a practical choice for individuals and employers seeking reliable testing solutions.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rolling Fields, KY
Our competitive pricing and rapid test result delivery offer exceptional value, catering to companies of various sizes. This affordability paired with quick turnaround supports organizations in maintaining efficient operations without compromising on cost or quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rolling Fields, KY
The precision and speed of hair follicle tests set them apart. These tests offer an incredibly high accuracy level in substance detection, allowing individuals and organizations in Rolling Fields to trust the results. With swift processing times, they ensure prompt report delivery, vital for decision-making and operational efficiency.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rolling Fields, KY
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps maintain adherence to workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and promoting safety. This method underscores employers' commitment to preserving a secure and compliant work environment, providing peace of mind on every test conducted.
