Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Ocean Pines, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as a robust method for identifying substance use through its ability to capture long-term data on alcohol and drugs by trapping biomarkers within the hair strands. When hair is collected near the scalp, it offers a detection period of around three months for substances. This method is straightforward to gather, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

A collected hair sample should be 1.5 inches in length with roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) to yield 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation stages. For testing that includes EtG, additional panels, or goes beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for accurate measurement. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes other types like facial and axillary hair.

Process Overview

The lab-based drug testing process comprises four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the process where the sample is initially registered within the lab's records. This step ensures the package was correctly sealed and delivered, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completes any additional necessary data entry lacking from an electronic chain of custody.

Screening acts as a preliminary drug check. Although this is a cost-efficient method for dismissing drug usage in most samples, any positive result needs confirmation for legal validity. Samples showing initial positive results in Screening require further confirmation.

In cases of presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is taken from the sample and subjected to Extraction. Here, the process extracts any drug content at a lower concentration than other methods like urine or oral fluid testing, marking hair testing as a complex procedure.

The Confirmation stage for positive screens involves GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Any sample presumed positive is thoroughly washed before confirmation if necessary. This full laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection duration: Hair testing detects drug consumption for a period of up to 90 days, surpassing the shorter detection span of urine testing.
• Resistance to tampering: Hair drug testing is notably hard to falsify, enhancing result reliability.
• Insight into use history: Offers an understanding of an individual's drug consumption over time, not just recent activity.

Limitations:

• Lack of detection for recent use: Drugs need roughly 5-7 days to manifest in hair strands.
• Expense: Hair testing generally incurs higher costs than other testing formats.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and personal differences in hair growth can alter drug metabolite concentrations in hair samples.

Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests," this testing actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When it comes to detecting drug use in Ocean Pines, MD, hair follicle testing offers clear advantages over urine testing. The enhanced accuracy and reliability make it the preferred choice. Unlike urine tests, hair tests can detect drug usage over much longer durations, allowing for a broader assessment period.

• Long detection period (up to 90 days).
• Reduces the chance of false negatives.
• More difficult to manipulate or obscure results.

Extended Detection Window

In Ocean Pines, MD, the hair follicle test provides an extended detection window that sets it apart from other methods. This test can reveal substance use as far back as 90 days, offering companies a comprehensive insight into an individual's history. This aids in making informed employment or disciplinary decisions.

• Monitors for longer durations compared to other tests.
• Reliable for pre-employment, random, or routine check-ups.
• Comprehensive view of the substance history.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

The hair follicle test is known for its tamper-resistant nature in Ocean Pines, MD. By significantly reducing the likelihood of adulteration, this testing method ensures reliable and unquestionable results every time. Organizations can trust the integrity of the samples collected for analysis.

• Resistant to most common tampering tactics.
• Provides peace of mind regarding sample authenticity.
• Ensures accuracy in testing outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Ocean Pines, MD, and across the nation, our testing centers provide convenient access to hair follicle testing services. With numerous locations available, testing becomes a hassle-free process. Whether local or nationwide, we ensure quick and easy accessibility.

• Widespread nationwide testing facilities.
• Local accessibility for timely testing needs.
• Streamlined procedures for client convenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Ocean Pines, MD, is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to obtaining results, the procedure protects client privacy while ensuring ease of use. Concerns regarding privacy and confidentiality are carefully addressed at every step.

• Simplified ordering and testing processes.
• Guaranteed confidentiality in handling and results delivery.
• Ease of access to information and support when needed.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

At Accredited Drug Testing in Ocean Pines, MD, our services offer affordable pricing with fast turnaround times. Companies, large or small, gain excellent value from our thoughtful pricing structures, while also benefiting from prompt and precise results.

• Competitive pricing options available.
• Quick processing and result dissemination.
• Great value for businesses of all sizes.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Ocean Pines, MD, hair follicle drug testing stands out for delivering fast, accurate results. The precision of these tests in identifying substance use is unparalleled. Accredited Drug Testing's modern methods ensure quick and dependable outcomes, allowing employers to make informed decisions swiftly.

• High precision in detecting a wide range of substances.
• Rapid processing and result delivery.
• Reliable and consistent testing methods.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Ocean Pines, MD, benefit from hair follicle testing as it ensures compliance with drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks. This testing method enhances workplace safety by reliably verifying employee sobriety, which in turn fosters a more productive and secure work environment.

• Consistent with workplace policy regulations.
• Reduces potential litigation risks.
• Boosts overall workplace safety and morale.

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