Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Choptank, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair tests are recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers in a growing hair strand capture biomarkers, providing a prolonged history of alcohol and drug presence. When sourced close to the scalp, hair can indicate alcohol and drug usage over approximately a 3-month timeframe. Its collection is straightforward, adulteration is relatively challenging, and shipping is convenient.

Acquiring a 1.5-inch segment containing about 200 strands of hair (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is considered the perfect sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses beyond 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. It's advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. The term 'head hair' specifically denotes scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses various types such as facial and axillary hair.

Procedure Summary

The drug testing procedure in a laboratory can be broken down into four vital steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning marks the initiation of a sample's journey through the laboratory's system. This phase involves confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any additional information absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening acts as an initial swift assessment for substance abuse. Though cost-effective for most samples, a positive screening outcome must be confirmed to hold legal validity. Samples with presumptive positive results during Screening require secondary confirmation.

In cases of presumptive positive outcomes at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than those in other methodologies (ex. urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug screening.

Confirmation of positive screening results employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positive outcomes undergo a washing process before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Hair Drug Testing Benefits:

• Extended Detection Period: Hair tests detect drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter detection windows.
• Cheat-resistant: Hair drug tests are highly resistant to tampering, ensuring precise results.
• Historical Patterns: They reveal drug usage over a duration rather than immediate use instances.

Drawbacks:

• Not Immediate Detection: Drugs typically become hair-detectable 5-7 days post-use.
• Expense: Hair tests can be costlier than alternative drug testing methods.
• Variable Outcomes: Drug metabolite concentrations in hair may be influenced by hair color and personal growth rates.

Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests in Choptank, MD, hair tests stand out due to their superior detection capabilities.
Urine tests may be common, but hair surveillance offers greater accuracy and reliability, capturing a wider window of drug use. This results in more informed choices for employers, enhancing the overall decision-making process.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle drug tests in Choptank, MD, offer an extended detection window, up to 90 days, surpassing other methods.
This allows employers to review an applicant's or employee's drug use comprehensively, beyond recent weeks. Understanding long-term substance patterns aids in making informed employment decisions, fostering a drug-free workplace.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Choptank, MD, vastly minimizes the risk of sample adulteration.
Unlike other testing methods, the integrity of hair samples is preserved through thorough procedures, ensuring the security of test results. This reliability brings assurance to employers seeking true representations of substance use.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Choptank, MD, our widespread testing centers, including local facilities, offer seamless access to drug testing services.
Whether it's for employers or individuals, the convenience ensures tests can be conducted without hassle. Accessibility to numerous locations supports ease and efficiency in meeting testing requirements.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of hair follicle testing in Choptank, MD, is straightforward and confidential.
From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed with privacy in mind. This simplicity addresses any concerns participants may have, ensuring a user-friendly and discreet experience in managing drug testing needs.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our services in Choptank, MD, combine cost-effectiveness with speed, offering affordable pricing and fast turnaround.
Competitive pricing models ensure all companies can obtain quality drug testing services without financial strain. Paired with quick result delivery, the value offered is second to none.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Choptank, MD, the advantage of hair follicle drug tests lies in their impressively fast and accurate results.
The precision in detecting substance use allows for quick decision-making. Not only are these tests reliable, but they also provide clarity without delays, ensuring employers can trust the outcomes. Speed combined with accuracy makes hair follicle testing a preferred choice.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

For employers in Choptank, MD, hair follicle testing supports compliance with drug-free workplace policies.
This method reduces potential legal risks, contributing to a safer work environment. Knowing that employees adhere to these policies ensures peace of mind, promoting both safety and responsibility.

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