Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has emerged as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By trapping biomarkers within the fibers of a developing hair strand, hair can offer an extended record of alcohol and drug usage. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is missing, a similar volume of body hair may be used. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The process of laboratory drug test result handling comprises four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into the lab's framework. This phase includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as an initial swift assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation for court acceptability. Any samples presumptively positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly reduced concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumptively positive undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing
In Stockton Springs, ME, hair follicle testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests. Its superior accuracy and reliability are evident, as hair tests reveal a longer detection period for drug usage. Whereas urine tests capture only recent usage, hair tests present a comprehensive overview, reducing the chances of inaccurate results.
Extended Detection Window
Hair follicle testing in Stockton Springs, ME stands out by providing an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This longer timeframe offers employers a broad view of an individual's substance history, helping make informed hiring and monitoring decisions. It's an indispensable tool for understanding patterns of drug use not visible in short-term tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method
The hair follicle drug tests employed in Stockton Springs, ME, significantly lower the possibility of sample tampering. With nearly foolproof measures, these tests ensure results remain reliable and credible, reducing the risks seen with traditional sample methods. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their testing results are beyond reproach.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations
Stockton Springs, ME benefits from our nationwide testing network, ensuring accessibility and convenience in drug testing services. Whether it's for individuals or businesses, our local and expansive network offers hassle-free testing experiences, reinforcing that professional needs are met promptly and efficiently across the board.
Simple, Confidential Process
In Stockton Springs, ME, we redefine simplicity and confidentiality in hair follicle testing. Our streamlined process for ordering, testing, and result delivery maintains user privacy without compromising ease. Individuals can trust that their information is secure, making the entire procedure stress-free and discreet.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround
We offer competitive pricing for hair follicle testing in Stockton Springs, ME, paired with rapid turnaround times. This combination delivers excellent value and assurance to companies of all scales, ensuring that their testing requirements are met cost-effectively without delay, thus supporting effective HR decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results
In Stockton Springs, ME, the precision and swiftness of hair follicle drug tests ensure that individuals and employers receive instant and reliable outcomes. The high accuracy of detecting substance use through hair testing provides unmatched assurance. Unlike other methods, hair tests deliver consistent and quick results, crucial for making informed decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Stockton Springs, ME allows employers to adhere to drug-free workplace policies seamlessly. They reduce legal risks and elevate workplace safety, ensuring an environment conducive to productivity and integrity. This form of testing brings unmatched peace of mind to employers.
