Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Ellerslie, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has gained recognition as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive history of alcohol and other substance usage by embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can yield a detection window of up to 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A sample of 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation analyses. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn’t available, an adequate amount of body hair can be gathered. When we mention head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (like facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The principal steps in processing a drug test in a laboratory setting include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the initial sample processing within a lab’s system. This involves ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody protocol.

Screening is a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While cost-effective for ruling out drug usage across most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally sound in court. All samples flagged as positive in the Screening process need a secondary verification.

Should a sample test positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial batch and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is considered among the most challenging methodologies to execute.

A positive screening result is validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that show presumptive positivity are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab procedure, from Accessioning through to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extensive detection window: Hair tests can identify drug usage for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests with a much shorter window.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is exceedingly difficult, thus results tend to be more reliable.
• Tracks drug usage patterns: It provides a timeline of drug consumption, rather than merely capturing recent usage.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect very recent usage: It takes around 5-7 days for drugs to appear in hair.
• Expensive: Hair drug tests generally cost more than other testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual differences in hair growth can impact the levels of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Even though commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test actually evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle tests have overtaken traditional urine tests in Ellerslie, MD. Their ability to provide unparalleled detection accuracy is recognized widely. Those seeking reliable assessments favor hair tests as they eliminate the inconsistencies often found with urine-based methodologies. This superiority lies in the extended detection capabilities, providing a clearer picture of substance use over time.

Extended Detection Window

In Ellerslie, MD, the extended detection window of hair follicle tests makes them an asset. Unlike other methods, these tests monitor drug use for up to 90 days, capturing extended usage histories. Employers benefit from this broader detection, enabling them to make informed decisions about employee drug habits and ensuring workplace integrity.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Ellerslie, MD benefits from the tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests. These assessments significantly diminish the risk of sample manipulation, providing reliable and unquestionable outcomes. The methodology ensures that results stand as credible proofs, crucial for contexts where authenticity is a priority.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Ellerslie, MD, the accessibility to drug testing services is unmatched with our nationally located centers. These facilities provide a convenient and hassle-free approach to substance use testing. By ensuring widespread availability, testing is easily accessible, saving time and effort for all involved.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Ellerslie, MD is simple and confidential. From the initial order to receiving results, each step is designed to address privacy concerns effectively. This streamlined approach ensures that both individuals and organizations can access testing services without compromising on security or efficiency.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Ellerslie, MD offers affordable hair follicle testing with a fast turnaround. Competitive pricing structures are designed to accommodate companies regardless of size. Speedy processing times guarantee quick access to results, providing excellent value and reassurance for those investing in comprehensive drug testing solutions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Ellerslie, MD, the efficiency and trustworthiness of hair follicle drug tests are unrivaled. These tests offer rapid outcomes while maintaining highly accurate detection for substance use. Precision is key in delivering results that reflect true use patterns, offering peace of mind and security for those who rely on quick yet detailed insights into drug use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Ellerslie, MD find peace of mind through hair follicle testing. Compliance with drug-free workplace policies becomes simpler with this method, minimizing legal challenges and enhancing safety standards. The rigorous testing process meets regulatory requirements, aiding enterprises in fostering safer and more compliant workplaces.

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