Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a historical record of substances by embedding biomarkers within its structure as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug usage over up to a 90-day period. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to deliver.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation steps. For testing of EtG, add-ons, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen amount of 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be collected, equivalent body hair should be gathered instead. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair. In contrast, body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four critical stages in processing a drug test result within the laboratory: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where a sample is entered into the laboratory's records. This step confirms that the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and supplements any missing data that the electronic chain of custody system has not provided.
Screening offers a preliminary assessment to identify substances of abuse. Though it provides a cost-efficient means to exclude drug use in most samples, any positive findings from Screening necessitate further validation before being deemed legally permissible. Those samples indicating a positive result during Screening must undergo additional confirmation testing.
When a specimen shows a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for further processing in Extraction. At this stage, substances are isolated from the hair at far reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of performing hair drug testing.
Any positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Samples with presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as required. Every stage, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is scrutinized in alignment with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 protocols.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis evaluates the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, when it comes to choosing between hair follicle and urine drug testing, the former clearly stands superior. Hair testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. Its extensive detection window and resistance to tampering offer a dependable solution for employers looking to enforce strict drug-free workplace policies, making it a clear choice over urine.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window that is one of its most compelling advantages. It can track substance use up to 90 days, providing employers with a comprehensive history of an employee's or applicant's drug use. This long-term view is invaluable for making informed hiring decisions and maintaining workplace safety standards, surpassing what shorter-duration tests can offer.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, the hair follicle test stands out as a tamper-resistant testing method. Its design significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are reliable and unquestionable. Employers can trust the integrity of the hair test, as the ability to manipulate results is virtually eliminated, providing peace of mind and assurance in maintaining a drug-free environment.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, convenient nationwide testing locations are a hallmark of our service. With our extensive network of testing centers, accessing hair follicle drug testing is quick, easy, and hassle-free. Whether you're in the heart of Pleasure Bend or beyond, our facilities are strategically located to ensure you receive timely and efficient testing services, eliminating the stress often associated with scheduling tests.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, our testing process is simple and confidential. From ordering to taking the test, and finally to receiving results, every step is designed to be straightforward, addressing any privacy concerns. This ease of use ensures that individuals feel comfortable participating in the testing process, knowing their information is secure and handled with the utmost discretion.
For companies in Pleasure Bend, LA, hair follicle testing services offer affordable pricing and fast turnaround. Our competitive pricing structures are designed to provide excellent value for businesses of all sizes, without compromising on quality. Coupled with quick turnaround times for results, this ensures companies can efficiently maintain their drug-free policies without breaking the bank.
In Pleasure Bend, LA, hair follicle drug tests offer fast, accurate, and reliable results. Their precision in identifying substance use is unmatched, providing high accuracy that ensures trustworthy outcomes every time. The expedient nature of hair tests means results are delivered promptly, serving urgent needs effectively and efficiently. This speed and accuracy make them a preferred choice for thorough drug screenings.
For employers in Pleasure Bend, LA, hair follicle testing offers compliance and peace of mind. Utilizing this method ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, effectively reducing legal risks. It bolsters workplace safety by providing a consistent and reliable testing framework, which reinforces the company’s commitment to a secure and healthy work environment, all while ensuring peace of mind for employers.
