Hair Follicle Drug Testing - St. Leonard, MD

What it is, How it works

The examination of hair has emerged as an effective technique to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a historical record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken close to the scalp, hair can offer an estimated 3-month detection period for substances. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for testing and validating results. For tests like EtG, additional panels, or those beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is preferred. It's advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is integrated into a lab's system. This process includes checking that the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data not captured by a digital chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary examination for potential substance abuse. While Screening is an economical method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive indication must undergo Confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any samples that yield a positive result in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.

For samples testing positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair at a lower concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug testing the most intricate method to conduct.

The Confirmation of any positive results in Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All initially positive samples are cleansed before Confirmation if needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 certification standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use over a 90-day period, whereas urine tests have a more limited detection window.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is notably difficult, increasing the reliability of the results.
• Offers historical insight: It reveals a pattern of substance use over time, not merely recent intake.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: Drugs become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days post-use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than other drug testing techniques.
• Result variability: Elements such as hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in the hair.

Note: Though sometimes termed "hair follicle tests," this analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle located beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in St. Leonard, MD

• Hair follicle tests offer extensive detection periods, enhancing their reliability over traditional urine tests.
• Increased accuracy and difficulty in tampering elevate their appeal for employers emphasizing zero-tolerance.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in St. Leonard, MD

• Hair follicle tests can trace drug use up to 90 days prior, offering a thorough insight into an individual's substance habits.
• This extended window assists employers in gaining a holistic view of potential hires or current staff.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in St. Leonard, MD

• Hair follicle testing notably reduces the chance of adulteration, making it highly trustworthy.
• This method ensures results that are dependable and robust against manipulation, crucial for precise drug testing.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide and Local Testing Locations in St. Leonard, MD

• Our widespread testing centers ensure swift and straightforward access to services, making the process hassle-free.
• Local availability means individuals can undergo testing without extensive travel, ensuring ease and convenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in St. Leonard, MD

• The entire process, from ordering to receiving results, is straightforward and respects privacy, ensuring user comfort.
• Our method prioritizes confidentiality and simplicity, addressing any privacy concerns individuals may have.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in St. Leonard, MD

• Our competitive rates and rapid service delivery provide excellent value to businesses of various scales.
• Companies benefit from quick, cost-effective solutions that do not sacrifice quality for affordability.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in St. Leonard, MD

• Hair follicle testing in St. Leonard, MD guarantees quick and precise results, detecting substance use with superior accuracy.
• Employers benefit from the trustworthiness of hair tests, facilitating informed decisions based on reliable data.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in St. Leonard, MD

• Hair follicle testing assists employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal hazards.
• Implementing these tests enhances corporate safety and regulatory compliance, fostering a safer work environment.

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