Hair Drug Testing Locations - Ruthsburg, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a historical record of alcohol and drug usage by retaining biomarkers within the hair's growing fibers. When taken as a sample close to the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches comprising about 200 hair strands (similar in breadth to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For testing such as EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equal quantity of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair exclusively means scalp hair. Body hair conveys any other type of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The principal steps in lab processing of drug test results are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab’s system. This incorporates confirming that the sample is sealed correctly and shipped properly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry lacking in an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening acts as an initial expedient assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening efficiently rules out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples suspected as positive during Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.

Should a sample yield a presumptive positive at the Screening stage, further hair is retrieved from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is considered the most complex technique.

Verification of any positive screen result is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation if needed. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use up to 90 days, in contrast to urine tests with a shorter detection window.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating on a hair drug test is quite unlikely, lending accuracy to the results.
• Gives historical insights: It provides a timeline of drug usage over an extended period, rather than just recent use.

Limitations:

• Cannot determine recent consumption: Drugs typically become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days post-use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests tend to be costlier than other drug-testing methods.
• Result variability: Aspects like hair color and individual differences in hair growth might alter drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Despite the common reference to "hair follicle tests," the test analyzes the hair strand alone, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ruthsburg, MD

• Superior detection accuracy offers a decisive advantage.
• Consistency and reliability present hair testing as a preferred choice.
• The extended detection window dramatically surpasses that of urine tests.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Ruthsburg, MD

• Hair follicle tests track drug use for up to 90 days.
• This extensive window provides a thorough view of an individual's substance history.
• Ideal for employers wanting a long-term assessment of potential employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ruthsburg, MD

• Hair follicle tests significantly lower the risk of sample tampering.
• They provide trustworthy and unquestionable results.
• This method assures integrity, essential for sensitive testing environments.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ruthsburg, MD

• Our extensive network offers convenient testing access.
• Effortless and hassle-free, ensuring peace of mind.
• Quick access to multiple locations simplifies the testing process.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Ruthsburg, MD

• Our ordering and testing process remains straightforward and discreet.
• Confidentiality is maintained, addressing privacy concerns.
• The ease of process encourages an open and user-friendly environment.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ruthsburg, MD

• Competitive pricing makes us a preferred choice.
• Quick turnaround ensures you get results fast, ideal for decision-making.
• Companies of all sizes benefit from excellent value.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ruthsburg, MD

• Hair follicle drug tests provide swift, precise results.
• High accuracy in identifying substance use, setting them apart in the industry.
• Spanning a comprehensive detection timeline, these tests ensure reliable outcomes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ruthsburg, MD

• Hair follicle testing complies with drug-free policies.
• Reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety.
• Employers benefit from heightened security and reliability.

Drug Testing Near Ruthsburg, MD

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