Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have emerged as a potent method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a historical record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is harvested near the scalp, it can offer an approximately 3-month period for detecting alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is uncomplicated, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to send.
A hair sample sized at 1.5 inches with around 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's diameter) proximal to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal sample size for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional testing, and evaluations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh specimens is recommended. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, a similar quantity of body hair might be gathered. References to head hair exclusively indicate scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The key stages in a lab's drug test outcome procedure include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the preliminary integration of a specimen into a laboratory's system. This process involves verifying that the specimen is properly sealed and shipped, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary rapid assessment for misuse of drugs. Though Screening is a cost-efficient strategy to dismiss drug presence in most samples, a positive finding must be substantiated to hold up in court. Any Screening results that potentially indicate positivity necessitate subsequent confirmation.
For a sample suspected as positive in Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair at a notably reduced concentration in contrast with other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence making hair drug assessment one of the most complex methods to execute.
Confirmation for any positive Screening findings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All positive presumptive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory operation from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed following the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 benchmarks.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often termed as "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Elton, LA
Hair follicle testing offers undeniable advantages over the traditional urine tests in Elton, LA. The superior detection accuracy makes hair testing preferred by those needing reliable substance use verification.
Compared to urine tests, hair testing provides an extended detection period, capturing a broader scope of drug use history, making it an essential tool for stringent drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Elton, LA
Hair follicle testing in Elton, LA, reveals drug use over an impressive span, up to 90 days. This prolonged detection period is crucial for employers seeking a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's substance use history.
Unlike other tests limited to short-term detection, this method offers a clearer, long-term view, benefiting both hiring processes and ongoing employment assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Elton, LA
The robustness of hair follicle testing in Elton, LA, significantly mitigates the risk of sample tampering. Its reliability ensures that results remain consistent and unquestionable, something critical in legal and employment scenarios.
With hair samples being less susceptible to adulteration, this testing method upholds the integrity of drug testing processes, providing confidence in the results obtained.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Elton, LA
Testing in Elton, LA, is made easy with Accredited Drug Testing’s extensive network of locations nationwide. This accessibility ensures quick and convenient testing services for all.
For those in Elton, including local testing options, offers hassle-free access, providing a streamlined process for individuals and employers in need of testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Elton, LA
The process of hair follicle testing in Elton, LA, is straightforward and discreet. From ordering to receiving results, each step is designed to prioritize ease and confidentiality.
Concerns about privacy, often associated with drug testing, are addressed with a streamlined system ensuring that personal information and results are handled with care and professionalism.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Elton, LA
Competitive pricing makes hair follicle testing in Elton, LA, an attractive option for companies of all sizes, offering excellent value alongside quick turnaround times.
The cost-effectiveness of this testing method, coupled with the speed of obtaining results, provides businesses with value while ensuring timely and informed decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Elton, LA
In Elton, LA, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their speed and precision. The accuracy of hair testing ensures substance use detection with reliability that is hard to match. Results are consistently precise, providing the insight needed swiftly to address substance use concerns.
The efficiency of this testing method enables faster decision-making, crucial in sensitive situations. This rapid turnaround supports employers in maintaining safety and compliance without delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Elton, LA
Hair follicle tests support employer compliance with drug-free workplace policies in Elton, LA, enhancing safety and reducing legal risks. This method aligns with stringent policies, ensuring thorough compliance and providing peace of mind.
The comprehensive detection capabilities of hair testing help uphold a safe and regulated workplace environment, beneficial for both employers and employees.
