Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by sequestering biomarkers within the strands as they grow. Collected near the scalp, hair offers an approximate 3-month detection time frame for both alcohol and drug use. Hair collection is straightforward, fairly resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of around 200 strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for both screening and verification. For EtG, supplemental tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's best to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a similar amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of handling a sample in a lab's system. This step ensures the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary check for substances. While it is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, positive results require confirmation to be valid legally. Any samples that appear positive during screening need further confirmation.
If a sample tests as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Drugs are then extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other tests (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair testing is among the most challenging methodologies.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is monitored under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", this test scrutinizes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why choose hair follicle testing over urine testing in Battle Lake, MN? The answer lies in superior detection and reliability. Hair tests boast an extended detection timeline compared to urine, capturing drug use patterns over months. This makes them an invaluable tool for employers and professionals seeking comprehensive insights.
In Battle Lake, MN, discover how hair follicle testing provides a comprehensive view with its impressive 90-day detection window. This method allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an employee’s past substance use, offering more than just a snapshot of recent drug activity.
Hair follicle tests in Battle Lake, MN, offer a robust defense against tampering. With their resilient nature, these tests significantly minimize the chances of sample adulteration, ensuring dependable and unquestionable outcomes for employers and professionals alike.
Convenience is key with hair follicle testing services available nationwide, including Battle Lake, MN. Our widespread testing centers ensure easy and quick access to hair testing, minimizing hassles and making the testing process seamless for all clients.
In Battle Lake, MN, our simple and confidential testing process ensures privacy and ease. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, every step is designed to respect your privacy while providing a straightforward approach to hair follicle testing.
Businesses in Battle Lake, MN, can rely on us for affordable pricing and swift turnaround times in hair follicle testing. Our competitive price structures deliver substantial value, ensuring that companies of all sizes benefit from rapid and economical drug testing solutions.
In Battle Lake, MN, the precision of hair follicle drug tests offers fast, accurate, and reliable results. By capturing a wide range of drug use over an extensive timeline, these tests provide a thorough analysis of substance usage. Quick processing times ensure that results are delivered efficiently, making them a trusted option for rapid detection needs.
Employers in Battle Lake, MN, can find compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing. By aligning with drug-free workplace policies, this method not only reduces legal liabilities but also boosts workplace safety, fostering a secure and compliant environment.
