Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has evolved into a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug intake by locking biomarkers within the strands' fibers as they grow. When cut near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately three-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, adulteration is moderately challenging, and shipment is simple.
A sample of 1.5 inches, approximately 200 hair strands (the width of a #2 pencil) next to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, ideal for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or those above 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is suggested. We advise verifying specimen weight using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is lacking, an equivalent amount of body hair may be utilized. When we mention head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial sample processing stage in a lab’s system. It involves verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not offered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. It is an economical approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, though a positive screen needs confirmation for court admissibility. Presumptively positive samples in Screening require secondary confirmation.
If a Screening stage sample tests presumptively positive, more hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (ex. urine or oral fluid), underscoring hair drug screening as the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of a positive screening result occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The whole laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the strand of hair, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hampden Highlands, ME
Hair follicle tests significantly outperform urine tests in Hampden Highlands due to their superior detection capabilities. While urine tests are common, hair tests offer a longer detection window, extending up to 90 days, making them more reliable for employers and probationary services seeking accurate historical drug use data.
Extended Detection Window in Hampden Highlands, ME
In Hampden Highlands, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing allows employers to get a more comprehensive view of an individual’s substance history. By revealing drug use over the last 90 days, this method provides a thorough picture, which is crucial for making informed hiring and employee retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hampden Highlands, ME
Hair follicle testing in Hampden Highlands offers a tamper-resistant method for drug screening. Due to the observed collection process and the stability of the hair matrix, it is nearly impossible to alter the results, ensuring that the findings are both reliable and trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hampden Highlands, ME
The accessibility of testing locations, including in Hampden Highlands, enhances the convenience of hair follicle testing services. With centers across the nation, access to reliable and swift testing is easy, ensuring that clients can perform tests without unnecessary hassles.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hampden Highlands, ME
The hair follicle testing process in Hampden Highlands is designed to be simple and confidential, respecting privacy while being easy to navigate. From ordering to receiving results, the process prioritizes the user experience, assuring users of adherence to privacy concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hampden Highlands, ME
The affordability and quick turnaround of hair follicle testing in Hampden Highlands make it an attractive option for businesses of any size. With competitive pricing strategies combined with fast processing, this testing method offers exceptional value and reassurance.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hampden Highlands, ME
Hair follicle drug tests in Hampden Highlands offer unmatched precision and efficiency, ensuring reliable detection of substance use. These tests are celebrated for their rapid and accurate results, making them an ideal choice for employers seeking swift insights into drug use without compromising accuracy.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hampden Highlands, ME
Employers in Hampden Highlands benefit from the compliance and assurance that hair follicle testing provides. By aligning with drug-free workplace policies, these tests minimize legal risks while enhancing safety and peace of mind.
