Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Forestville, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as a reliable technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-standing evidence of alcohol and other drugs by containing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When collected close to the scalp, hair offers up to around a 90-day window for detecting alcohol and other drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat hard to alter, and easy to send.

A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of about 200 strands of hair (approximately as thick as a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is an optimal sample for testing and verification. For tests like EtG, additional diagnostics, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair may be acquired. Reference to head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The primary steps in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning covers the initial incorporation of a sample into the lab’s system. This involves confirming that the sample was sealed and delivered correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening constitutes an initial quick assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening efficiently eliminates drug presence in most cases, a positive result must be verified for legal validation. Any specimens showing presumptive positivity during Screening require a subsequent confirmation.

In instances where a sample is presumptively positive during the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which contributes to hair drug screening's complexity.

Confirmation of any initially positive screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as needed. The entire lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidance and is certified under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use spanning up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection span.
• Resistance to manipulation: It is exceedingly difficult to alter a hair drug test, resulting in more reliable results.
• Historical data provision: It can illustrate a pattern of drug use over time, rather than just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair only after about 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug tests usually incur higher costs than other drug testing methodologies.
• Result variability: Factors like hair color and individual differences in hair growth can affect drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing takes precedence in Forestville, MD, due to its unparalleled accuracy. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis detects a broader range of drug metabolites, presenting a clear picture of one's substance use history. Precision in hair testing lies in its ability to trace drug usage over an extended period, setting a higher standard in drug detection.

While urine tests focus on recent consumption, hair analyses cover up to three months, capturing chronic use patterns. This makes hair testing particularly beneficial in job screenings and probation assessments, providing reliable data over time. Moreover, the observable collection process reduces sample tampering risks, unheard of in urine tests.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Forestville, MD, excels with its extended detection window, spanning up to 90 days. This feature uncovers long-term substance use, offering a detailed understanding of an individual's habits. For employers and authorities, this means having a thorough evaluation over weeks and months, surpassing short-span tests.

The comprehensive insights provided by hair testing are invaluable for maintaining workplace safety and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations. Employers can review broader patterns of substance use, critical for making informed decisions about prospective or current employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Opting for hair follicle testing in Forestville, MD, ensures a tamper-resistant process. Unlike other methods, the nature of hair sample collection diminishes the likelihood of adulteration. This makes the hair tests one of the most secure ways to acquire drug screening results.

Hair tests have gained trust for their unquestionable reliability. By minimizing sample manipulation risks, they offer results that organizations can depend on, which is crucial for maintaining drug-free environments in the workforce and the legal system.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our nationwide network, including local resources in Forestville, MD, provides unmatched convenience for hair follicle testing. Offering easy access, our testing centers ensure a seamless testing experience across various locations, making drug screening accessible to all in need.

For residents and businesses in Forestville, quick and straightforward access to our testing centers simplifies the drug screening process. The network allows for flexible scheduling and minimizes the hassle, ensuring efficient and reliable service.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Forestville, MD, is straightforward and prioritized for confidentiality. From ordering to results delivery, each step is streamlined to ensure the utmost privacy and ease for individuals and businesses engaging in testing services.

Confidential dealings are a pillar of our service, guaranteeing that sensitive information remains protected. This simplification and privacy offer reassurance to those undergoing testing, enhancing their overall experience and comfort.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive pricing and swift turnaround are hallmarks of our hair follicle testing services in Forestville, MD. Businesses find peace of mind with our cost-effective solutions that do not compromise on accuracy and reliability, fitting budgets large and small.

The efficient processing leads to rapid result acquisition, invaluable for companies of any scale needing concise drug testing. This affordability and speed ensure our clients receive exceptional value, making us a preferred partner for testing needs.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The speed and accuracy of hair follicle drug tests set them apart in Forestville, MD. These tests are renowned for their quick turnaround, providing results with high precision. Detecting even the smallest traces of substance use, they ensure that employers and legal entities receive accurate and reliable data posthaste.

With the ability to process multiple tests rapidly, hair testing stands out for its efficiency. Unlike other methods, it maintains accuracy without sacrificing speed. Such capabilities make it the preferred choice for clients seeking trustworthy and prompt drug testing solutions.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing in Forestville, MD, plays a critical role in achieving compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method aids in reducing legal liabilities while enhancing workplace safety standards. Employers experience peace of mind knowing their screening practices meet both industry and legal benchmarks for sound policies.

The accuracy and consistency of hair testing results ensure clear adherence to regulations. This reinforces employer commitment to maintaining safe, drug-free workspaces, ultimately enhancing organizational trust and reputation.

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