Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Pine Rest, MA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has emerged as a significant method for identifying alcohol and drug use. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug consumption by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. Collected from near the scalp, hair offers up to a 3-month detection range for alcohol and drugs. It's straightforward to gather, resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.

Taking a 1.5-inch portion of around 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil thickness) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests involving more than 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be nonexistent, a comparable amount of body hair might be used. 'Head hair' specifically means scalp hair only. 'Body hair' includes all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).

Process Overview

The primary phases in processing a test result in a lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning includes the sample's initial integration into a lab's system. Ensuring the sample's seal and proper shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and doing any extra data input missing from an electronic custody system are part of this step.

Screening acts as a preliminary rapid examination for substance abuse. Although it's cost-effective for eliminating drug use suspicion across most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal acceptance. Presumptive positive samples during Screening need a follow-up confirmation.

Presumptive positives during Screening undergo further hair collection from the original sample for Extraction. This phase extracts drugs at lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining hair drug screening's complexity.

Confirming any positive screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples testing presumptive positive undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation follows CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Long detection window: Hair drug tests detect drug usage spanning up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter spans.
• Difficulty to cheat: Cheating is challenging in hair drug testing, enhancing accuracy.
• Provides historical data: It reveals a usage pattern over time, rather than only recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect recent use: Drugs appear in hair after approximately 5-7 days post-consumption.
• Cost: Hair drug testing tends to be pricier than other methods.
• Variations in results: Individual factors like hair color and growth can impact metabolite concentration.

Note: The so-called "hair follicle tests" actually analyze the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Pine Rest, MA

Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing provides superior detection accuracy. Not only is this method more reliable, but it also offers an extensive window for identifying substance use, presenting a powerful tool for employers and professionals in the industry.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Pine Rest, MA

With the ability to reveal drug use over a period of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides employers with a comprehensive overview of an individual's drug history. This capability is crucial for making informed decisions regarding employment and maintaining a drug-free workplace.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Pine Rest, MA

Hair follicle testing vastly reduces the possibility of sample tampering. This method provides reliable results, safeguarding against adulteration and ensuring that the integrity of the test is preserved, offering peace of mind to employers and authorities alike.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Pine Rest, MA

Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide guarantees convenient access to service, making the testing process quick and hassle-free. Local availability ensures that the residents of Pine Rest have ready access to necessary testing facilities without inconvenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Pine Rest, MA

The process of ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and confidential. This method addresses privacy concerns and promotes ease of use, offering a seamless experience from start to finish.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Pine Rest, MA

We offer competitive pricing models and swift result delivery, ensuring value for companies of all sizes. Our services are designed to provide peace of mind through affordable and timely testing solutions, accommodating a spectrum of business needs.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Pine Rest, MA

Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and speed, ensuring rapid detection of substance use. This method excels in providing timely and accurate readings, making it a preferred choice for both employers and individuals seeking reliable information regarding drug use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Pine Rest, MA

Adopting hair follicle testing assists employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, significantly minimizing legal risks and promoting a safer work environment. This method ensures compliance and boosts confidence in maintaining industry standards.

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