Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand, hair offers a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drug history. When taken near the scalp, hair samples can reveal substance use for up to three months. The collection of hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, and panel counts above 10, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample. If there's no scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair may be utilized. References to head hair pertain exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types, such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is introduced into a laboratory’s system. This phase includes ensuring the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completing any necessary data inputs missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial rapid evaluation for drug abuse. Though Screening offers a cost-effective solution to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for it be permissible in a legal setting. Any samples showing a presumptive positive in Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation process.
Upon receiving a presumptive positive in the Screening stage, additional hair from the initial sample is collected for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration than is typical in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), accounting for the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used to confirm any positive results from screening. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory procedure undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly called "hair follicle tests," the procedure actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New Gloucester, ME
In New Gloucester, ME, hair testing offers a superior alternative to urine tests by delivering enhanced detection accuracy. Unlike urine tests, which have a shorter detection window, hair tests ensure a reliable analysis of substance use over a longer period. This method is advantageous for employers and legal bodies aiming for consistent and precise results.
Extended Detection Window in New Gloucester, ME
Hair follicle testing in New Gloucester, ME, offers a significant benefit of detecting drug use over a 90-day period. This extended window provides a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history, crucial for employers seeking detailed and dependable insights into an employee's potential use of drugs.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New Gloucester, ME
By employing hair follicle testing in New Gloucester, ME, there is a reduced risk of sample tampering, ensuring the credibility of results. Such tests are conducted under supervised conditions, making them resistant to adulteration and providing stakeholders with unquestionable results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New Gloucester, ME
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient access to testing centers nationwide, including those in New Gloucester, ME. This network enables hassle-free and rapid testing services, ensuring that clients can locate a center nearby and access our services with ease.
Simple, Confidential Process in New Gloucester, ME
In New Gloucester, ME, the process of ordering and conducting hair follicle tests is streamlined for simplicity and confidentiality. Clients can confidently take and receive results, assured of their privacy being protected, while benefiting from an easy-to-navigate procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New Gloucester, ME
Our hair follicle testing in New Gloucester, ME, is cost-effective with quick turnaround times. Companies of all sizes can benefit from competitive pricing structures, receiving outstanding value and expedited results that accommodate their operational needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New Gloucester, ME
Hair follicle drug tests in New Gloucester, ME, are known for their quick and highly precise results. These tests provide accurate detection of substance use, outpacing traditional methods in terms of reliability. Individuals and businesses can trust these results for their critical decision-making needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New Gloucester, ME
Employers in New Gloucester, ME, who utilize hair follicle testing can achieve greater compliance with their drug-free workplace policies. This testing method helps in mitigating legal risks and promoting a safer work environment, thereby offering peace of mind and allowing employers to maintain high standards of workplace integrity.
