Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Pineville, LA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands offer a prolonged record of alcohol and drug presence by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair. When obtained from near the scalp, hair can provide an approximate 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to collect, moderately resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil width) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and verification. For enhanced tests like EtG, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Employ a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses other variants (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory drug test processing involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is processed into the lab system. It includes ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and transported, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any missed data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody setup.

Screening is a preliminary method to check for substance misuse. While it is a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most cases, a positive screening result must be confirmed for legal acceptability. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require an additional confirmation.

In the event of a presumptive positive result during Screening, further hair is extracted from the original sample and set for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a markedly decreased concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug analysis one of the most challenging to execute.

GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods confirm any positive screening outcomes. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and adheres to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair analysis can reveal drug usage up to 90 days, surpassing the shorter detection span of urine tests.
• Difficult to manipulate: Altering hair drug test results is challenging, ensuing more reliable outcomes.
• Historical usage pattern: Offers insight into the drug use trend over an extended timeline, unlike just recent usage.

Limitations:

• Lacks recent use detection: Approximately 5-7 days are required before drugs become traceable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug analysis tends to be pricier than other testing methods.
• Result variability: Factors such as individual hair color and growth differences may influence drug metabolite concentrations in the hair.

Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests", the analysis is of the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Pineville, LA, surpasses traditional urine tests in various aspects. While both methods serve to detect drug use, hair testing offers unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability. It eliminates the chance of tampering and extends the detection window, making it a preferred choice for many employers and legal entities seeking comprehensive and precise drug-testing solutions.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Pineville, LA, offers an extended window of detection, up to 90 days. This feature grants employers a more thorough understanding of an individual's substance history compared to urine tests. It means businesses and organizations can make well-informed decisions about hiring and workplace safety, having comprehensive knowledge of applicants’ or employees’ habits.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Pineville, LA, ensures the integrity and reliability of samples. Unlike urine tests, which are susceptible to adulteration, hair tests greatly reduce manipulation risks. This method provides peace of mind with undeniable results that truly reflect the individual's drug use history, showcasing its superiority in maintaining test authenticity.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accessing testing services in Pineville, LA, is effortless with our extensive network of nationwide centers. These facilities provide convenience, enabling swift and straightforward testing procedures. Our strategically located centers ensure that individuals and businesses can access reliable drug testing services without hassle, enhancing the overall efficiency of the process.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Pineville, LA, the hair testing process stands as straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the entire procedure is designed to prioritize privacy and simplicity. Clients can be at ease knowing that their information remains secure, with results returned promptly, ensuring a hassle-free and discreet experience every step of the way.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing in Pineville, LA, offers competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times. Our commitment to affordability ensures businesses of all sizes receive excellent value, without compromising the quality of testing services. With prompt result delivery, companies can rely on timely insights that support effective decision-making and peace of mind.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Pineville, LA, the speed and reliability of hair follicle drug testing ensure quick, precise results. This method stands out for its ability to accurately identify substance use, delivering results rapidly without compromising precision. Hair follicle tests efficiently detect a wide range of drugs, ensuring users receive reliable outcomes in a timely manner.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Adopting hair follicle testing in Pineville, LA, brings compliance and tranquility to the workplace. By employing this method, employers adhere to strict drug-free policies, thereby mitigating legal risks and bolstering workplace safety. Hair testing offers a reliable framework for maintaining a secure and compliant environment, fostering peace of mind among business owners and managers.

Drug Testing Near Pineville, LA

Lamourie, LA

Woodworth, LA

Rock Hill, LA

Chambers, LA

Prospect, LA

Kolin, LA

Ball, LA

Libuse, LA

Willow Glen, LA

Anandale, LA

Tioga, LA

Wardville, LA

Alexandria, LA