Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective means of detecting substance use. It captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug exposure by storing biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer around a 90-day detection period for both alcohol and drugs. It's straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hairs (approximating a #2 pencil's girth) nearest the scalp will yield 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analytes, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If head hair is unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step of integrating a sample into a lab's system. This step verifies that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is an economical method for excluding drug intake in the majority of samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Samples with presumed positive results in Screening require additional verification.
If presumptive positives arise in the Screening phase, more hair is taken from the original sample for the Extraction stage. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive found in Screening is achieved with GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all samples suspected as positive are cleansed as required. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subject to review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests", this analysis examines the strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Destrehan, LA
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle exams offer superior accuracy and detection capabilities. This method surpasses urine tests by identifying various substances effectively, with a focus on long-term patterns of drug use. The increased reliability of this method has made it an increasingly popular choice in Destrehan, LA.
Extended Detection Window in Destrehan, LA
Hair follicle testing boasts an impressive detection period of up to 90 days, far surpassing that of basic urine tests. This extensive window gives companies in Destrehan an in-depth view of a candidate's or employee's drug use history, enhancing the ability to make informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Destrehan, LA
A major strength of hair follicle tests is their tamper-proof nature. The process involved minimizes opportunities for sample adulteration, ensuring results are both reliable and trustworthy. The added security measures provide a robust solution for drug testing in Destrehan, LA.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Destrehan, LA
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, including in Destrehan, makes accessing hair follicle drug testing services straightforward. This ensures fast, convenient, and stress-free service, aligning with the needs of businesses and individuals alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Destrehan, LA
The entire procedure for hair follicle testing is designed to be both simple and confidential. From arranging the test to receiving results, the process safeguards privacy while being easy to navigate, ensuring users in Destrehan, LA have a hassle-free experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Destrehan, LA
Our hair follicle tests offer competitive pricing and a swift turnaround time, providing excellent value. In Destrehan, LA, companies of varying scales benefit from our efficient services, ensuring they receive top-quality results without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Destrehan, LA
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched accuracy, delivering swift outcomes. In Destrehan, LA, we pride ourselves on providing precise results quickly, ensuring clients have the information they need efficiently. This method reveals drug use effectively, offering a high degree of confidence in the results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Destrehan, LA
For businesses in Destrehan, hair follicle testing aligns with maintaining a drug-free workplace. This method supports compliance with company policies, reduces legal risk, and promotes a safer work environment, giving employers the confidence they need to uphold their standards.