Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means for identifying the use of both drugs and alcohol. Hair serves as a comprehensive record for drug and alcohol usage by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands as hair continues to grow. When taken near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of close to three months for alcohol and various drugs. The collection process for hair is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and the samples are simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches comprising around 200 hairs (equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for conducting screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen quantity of 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to gauge the specimen’s weight is suggested. Should scalp hair not be available, the same quantity of body hair can be obtained. The reference to head hair pertains exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other varieties of hair (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab analysis of a drug test result consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, initial processing of a sample into the laboratory’s system takes place. This procedure verifies that the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigns a randomized LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any additional data input not available through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening serves as a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use across most samples, confirmation of a positive screen is essential for it to be considered court-admissible. Samples with a presumptive positive result during Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
In cases where a sample indicates a presumptive positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original specimen to prepare for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at reduced concentrations in comparison to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive result from screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that appear presumptively positive undergo a wash as necessary prior to confirmation. The complete laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually assess hair strands rather than the follicles beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing stands superior to urine testing in Stephenson, MI. Hair tests boast of higher detection accuracy and reliability, compared to the traditional urine tests. They provide a long-term view of substance use, surpassing the short-term detection capabilities of urine tests. This makes them a preferred choice among employers who seek comprehensive data on potential hires or current employees.
In Stephenson, MI, hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, identifying drug use for up to 90 days. This provides employers with a detailed history of substance use, far beyond the typical scope of urine tests. The extended window allows for a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's behavior, aiding in informed decision-making.
In Stephenson, MI, hair follicle tests enhance security by significantly reducing the risk of sample tampering. The method ensures samples remain intact throughout the testing process, yielding reliable results. This tamper-resistant nature offers assurance of authenticity, making it difficult for individuals to alter or manipulate the outcome.
With nationwide testing centers, including in Stephenson, MI, accessing hair follicle tests is convenient and efficient. Clients can easily locate local facilities to undergo testing, ensuring a seamless experience. The widespread network of centers guarantees accessibility, making the process straightforward and accommodating for all individuals and employers.
In Stephenson, MI, the hair follicle testing process is simple and confidential. From ordering a test to receiving the results, every step is designed to protect privacy and ensure ease of use. Clients can rest assured that their information remains secure throughout the testing process, experiencing minimal hassle.
Offering competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, our hair follicle tests in Stephenson, MI provide excellent value. Companies of all sizes benefit from this cost-effective solution, receiving timely results without compromising on quality. The affordability and speed of service ensure businesses can make informed decisions swiftly and economically.
In Stephenson, MI, the hair follicle drug test is acclaimed for its fast and accurate results, providing reliable detection of substance use. Unlike other tests, hair analyses can swiftly process samples with high precision, offering clear insights to decision-makers. By utilizing advanced technology, the hair test ensures timely outcomes that are both trustworthy and detailed.
Employers in Stephenson, MI trust hair follicle testing for ensuring compliance with drug-free policies. This approach minimizes legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind. By adhering to this reliable testing standard, businesses can maintain a safe and compliant work environment, reducing the potential for substance-related incidents.
