Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as a robust means for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption, hair analysis offers insight into prolonged substance usage by encasing biomarkers within the shafts of hair as it grows. Retrieved near the scalp, hair can reveal a timeline of up to about 90 days for substances such as alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
To obtain an optimal 100mg sample for both screening and confirmatory purposes, gather a 1.5-inch section from around 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp. For EtG enhancements and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg portion is advised. It is preferable to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
An Overview of the Process
The drug testing sequence in a laboratory includes four essential phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample within a laboratory's framework. This phase entails verifying the intactness and appropriate dispatch of the sample, the attribution of a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and the completion of any data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody protocol.
Screening functions as an initial, rapid examination for substance abuse indicators. Though a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use in most specimens, a positive outcome within Screening necessitates validation for judicial acceptance. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening require subsequent verification.
Upon a presumptive positive outcome in Screening, additional hair from the original sample enters the Extraction phase. Here, the hair undergoes a process to isolate drugs at notably reduced concentrations compared to alternate practices (e.g., urine or oral fluid); highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Verification of any positive Screening results occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to affirmation, any presumptively positive samples undergo necessary wash procedures. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is scrutinized per the standards of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair directive and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of Hair Drug Testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests" being commonly used, the assessment evaluates the hair shaft and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hingham, MA
When it comes to accuracy, hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests. Its ability to provide a longer detection window enhances reliability, capturing a more comprehensive history of drug use. Unlike urine tests, hair analysis minimizes cheating possibilities, ensuring trustworthy outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Hingham, MA
Hair follicle testing offers the advantage of detecting drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days. This feature provides employers with a well-rounded perspective on an individual’s history, crucial for making informed decisions during hiring or ongoing employment evaluations.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hingham, MA
Hair follicle tests significantly curtail the risk of sample tampering. Their design makes them exceptionally difficult to adulterate, yielding results that are reliable and beyond question, further solidifying their status as a preferred testing method.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hingham, MA
Benefit from the accessibility of our nationwide testing centers, providing seamless and efficient access to hair follicle testing services. Our extensive network guarantees a straightforward, stress-free experience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hingham, MA
Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and private. From ordering to receiving results, confidentiality is prioritized, ensuring users feel secure and comfortable throughout. Ease of use is central, promising a hassle-free experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hingham, MA
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times provide exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. We emphasize affordability without sacrificing quality, ensuring companies achieve peace of mind while optimizing their budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hingham, MA
The precision and swiftness of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched, offering high accuracy in detecting substance use. Compared to other methods, hair testing ensures reliability and quicker turnaround times, making it an ideal choice for those who need precise and prompt results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hingham, MA
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, enhancing compliance and reducing legal risks. This testing method not only ensures safety but also offers employers reassurance, securing a healthier and more productive work environment.
