Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Galena, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a significant method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the expanding hair strand. When extracted from a spot near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate three-month timeframe for the detection of alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and effortless to transport.

A segment of hair measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the perfect specimen for evaluation and corroboration. For EtG, additional tests, and examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other forms of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four primary phases in the laboratory handling of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s database. This stage confirms the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data input not available via an electronic chain of custody protocol.

Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs. Screening is a cost-efficient method to negate drug use for most samples, yet a positive screen requires confirmation to hold in a legal setting. Any samples preliminarily positive during Screening must undergo further affirmation.

If a specimen tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair from the initial sample undergoes preparation for Extraction. Throughout this phase, drugs are withdrawn from hair at a significantly lower concentration than alternative methods (for example, urine or oral fluid), which renders hair drug screening the most intricate methodology to execute.

The validation of any positive screening outcome is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens are cleansed before confirmation where necessary. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug assessments can identify drug usage for up to 90 days, whereas urine assessments provide a more limited detection span.
• Difficult to deceive: It's notably challenging to outwit a hair drug assessment, leading to more reliable outcomes.
• Offers historical insight: It delivers a usage pattern of drugs over a timeframe, rather than just recent usage.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect immediate use: Typically, it requires about 5-7 days for drugs to appear in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug assessments are generally pricier than other drug detection methods.
• Outcome variations: Elements such as hair color and personal disparities in hair growth can influence the levels of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Though often termed as "hair follicle tests", the assessment itself evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Galena, MD
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, hair testing emerges as the superior option due to its extensive detection period and accuracy.

Employers in Galena, MD benefit from hair tests by receiving more reliable results. Hair tests cover drug use over a longer timeframe, while urine tests are limited to recent usage.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Galena, MD
Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to detect substance use over an extended period, up to 90 days, offering employers in Galena a comprehensive insight into a person's drug history.

This extended detection window is unmatched by other testing methods, allowing for a detailed assessment of an individual's past substance use and ensuring informed decision-making.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Galena, MD
Hair follicle tests significantly deter attempts to adulterate samples, offering robust and unquestionable results in Galena, MD. The test's design makes compromising the results nearly impossible.

The reliability of hair follicle tests ensures the integrity of the testing process, providing peace of mind for employers and other stakeholders concerned with sample tampering.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Galena, MD
Our expansive network of testing centers, including locations in Galena, MD, ensures unparalleled ease in accessing drug testing services.

The availability of numerous locations guarantees that individuals can conveniently undergo testing without unnecessary hassle or inconvenience, supporting a streamlined process.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Galena, MD
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential, addressing any privacy concerns in Galena, MD.

This confidentiality ensures that individuals can feel secure throughout the testing procedure, reinforcing trust in the process and guaranteeing ease of use for all involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Galena, MD
With competitive pricing structures and quick turnaround times, we provide excellent value for businesses in Galena, MD, regardless of size.

Our cost-effective solutions deliver peace of mind by ensuring that quality results are obtained swiftly, adding significant value for employers requiring efficient testing services.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Galena, MD
Utilizing hair follicle drug tests ensures high precision and reliability in Galena, MD. These tests offer quick and accurate results, effectively identifying substance use.

The speed at which results can be obtained from hair follicle tests guarantees punctual and dependable outcomes. Moreover, their high accuracy rates reduce the likelihood of false positives, making them a preferred choice.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Galena, MD
Employing hair follicle drug testing helps maintain compliance with workplace drug-free policies in Galena, MD, minimizing legal risks and boosting workplace safety.

The use of hair tests ensures that employer policies are effectively upheld, providing assurance and peace of mind while fostering a secure and compliant environment.

Drug Testing Near Galena, MD

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