Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can capture a long-term record of drug and alcohol use by holding biomarkers within the strands as they develop. Collected near the scalp, hair can show an alcohol and drug detection window of approximately three months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample size of 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 strands similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil, can yield 100mg of hair. This amount is perfect for both screening and confirmation tests. For testing that involves EtG, extra tests, or more than 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It is recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, equivalent body hair can be used. References to head hair mean only scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types, such as facial and underarm hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results includes four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage of registering a sample into the laboratory system. This involves ensuring the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any additional manual data entry that is not included in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is the preliminary check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an effective way to rule out most drug use, a positive screen needs confirmation to be used legally. Any samples that yield a presumptive positive result in Screening need secondary confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from the hair in lower concentrations compared to other methodologies, like urine or oral samples, making hair drug screening a complex process.
Confirmation of positive screening results is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are thoroughly washed as required before confirmation. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being called "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Choose Hair Over Urine Testing? In Linneus, ME, hair follicle tests outperform traditional urine tests with enhanced detection accuracy and unparalleled reliability. These tests provide a longer-detection timeframe, making them invaluable for comprehensive screenings.
Extended Detection Window is a crucial advantage for hair follicle tests in Linneus, ME, as they cover substance use over a 90-day span. This extensive timeframe enables employers to gather a detailed understanding of an individual's drug history.
Minimized Risk of Tampering characterizes hair follicle tests in Linneus, ME, ensuring highly reliable and indisputable results. These tests are resistant to adulteration, offering peace of mind with each sample tested.
Accessible Testing Locations throughout Linneus, ME and nationwide ensure ease and convenience for all drug testing needs. Our network of centers allows for quick, straightforward, and stress-free testing processes.
Simplified Confidential Process is at the core of our services in Linneus, ME, addressing privacy concerns and ensuring an uncomplicated experience when ordering, conducting, and receiving test results.
Competitive Pricing and Swift Turnaround make our services in Linneus, ME attractive for businesses of any size. We provide outstanding value along with peace of mind through economical pricing and rapid test result delivery.
Fast, Precise, and Unwavering results are achievable in Linneus, ME through hair follicle drug testing, standing out for its rapid throughput and dependability. This method's noteworthy accuracy presents a clear advantage in identifying substances effectively.
Ensuring Compliance through hair follicle testing in Linneus, ME helps maintain adherence to workplace drug policies. Employers can mitigate legal challenges and bolster workplace safety, contributing to a healthier working environment.
