Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers from alcohol and drugs, providing a historical overview of substance intake. Samples collected near the scalp can reveal drug and alcohol use for up to three months. Hair samples are straightforward to gather, moderately resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) obtained close to the scalp will yield about 100mg of hair, suitable for testing. For EtG and additional panels exceeding 10, a sample size of 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a comparable amount of body hair may be used as a substitute. “Head hair†refers exclusively to scalp hair, while “body hair†encompasses all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory testing process consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is logged into the lab’s system, where its sealed condition is checked, a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and necessary data not covered by an electronic chain of custody is entered.
Screening comprises a rapid assessment to detect drugs of abuse. Although Screening is economical for excluding drug use in many samples, a positive result requires official confirmation for legality. Samples testing positive during Screening need an additional verification step.
Samples that test positive in Screening proceed to the Extraction stage, where additional hair from the initial sample is processed. Drugs are extracted at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair analysis poses greater challenges.
Positive results are cross-verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Before confirmation, samples undergo washing if necessary. The overall laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes examination for compliance with the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO/IEC 17025 certification.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests," the evaluation is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair vs. Urine Testing in Bejou, MN: When evaluating drug testing methods, hair follicle testing is unparalleled. Its ability to detect substance use over a prolonged period offers a significant advantage over traditional urine tests. Hair testing ensures a more comprehensive review, allowing for superior detection accuracy and reliability, providing insights that urine samples cannot.
Extended Detection Window in Bejou, MN: Hair follicle testing stands out with its ability to identify drug use for up to 90 days prior. This extensive window is valuable for employers needing a broad overview of an individual's substance history, ensuring informed decisions based on solid evidence of past drug use, enhancing workplace reliability.
Secure Testing Method in Bejou, MN: Hair follicle tests are resistant to tampering, ensuring the integrity of results. Unlike other methods, the risk of adulteration is minimized, providing reliable outcomes. This high level of security delivers unquestionable results, giving businesses and individuals peace of mind in the testing process.
Convenient Testing Locations in Bejou, MN: With a network of nationwide testing centers, accessing hair follicle testing services is quick and straightforward. Whether local or nationwide, our centers are strategically placed to ensure efficient testing processes, allowing clients to undergo testing with minimal hassle and utmost convenience.
Simple Process in Bejou, MN: The process for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and discreet. From ordering to results, clients experience confidentiality and ease of use. Concerns about privacy are addressed, ensuring that sensitive information is kept secure throughout the entire testing process, from start to finish.
Cost-effective Solutions in Bejou, MN: Offering competitive pricing and swift turnaround, our hair follicle testing services provide excellent value for businesses. The rapid result delivery coupled with affordable rates ensures that companies of all sizes can benefit from the financial and operational advantages of our testing solutions.
Hair Follicle Tests in Bejou, MN offer rapid and accurate results. These tests excel in detecting a wide range of substances promptly and with precision. The process ensures high sensitivity and reliability, making it a preferred choice for those seeking dependable outcomes. Clients can trust the accuracy of hair tests to provide a clear understanding of substance use over time.
Compliance Assurance in Bejou, MN: Implementing hair follicle testing aids employers in adhering to drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. This method offers a comprehensive approach, ensuring organizations comply with regulations while fostering an environment of trust and security for all employees involved.
