Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It serves as a long-standing record for alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fabric of the hair as it grows. When clipped near the scalp, a hair sample can reveal usage of alcohol and drugs for a period of up to around three months. The collection of hair is straightforward, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Using a jeweler's scale for measuring the sample is suggested. If head hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be gathered. Mention of head hair implies specifically scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four principal phases in the lab processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial handling of a sample within a lab's protocol. This step includes ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any required information not documented by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical procedure for excluding drug usage in most samples, a positive result from screening necessitates verification to be considered valid in legal proceedings. Samples that are likely positive in Screening need a second confirmation.
If a sample appears positive during Screening, extra hair is extracted from the primary sample and readied for Extraction. During Extraction, medications are extracted from hair at much smaller concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most complex method to conduct.
Confirmation of any screening positive result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that appear positive are cleaned before confirmation as deemed necessary. The whole laboratory method from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and the adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 guidelines.
Benefits of hair drug screening:
Drawbacks:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bigelow, MN
Comparatively superior in detecting substance use, hair follicle tests offer unparalleled accuracy and reliability over traditional urine tests. With their longer detection periods and reduced chance of tampering, these tests deliver more comprehensive insights into an individual's drug use, making them the preferred choice for many in Bigelow, MN.
Extended Detection Window in Bigelow, MN
Hair follicle testing provides a prolonged detection window for identifying drug use, extending up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe allows employers in Bigelow, MN, to gain greater insight into an individual's historical substance use, aiding in informed decision-making regarding recruitment and retention strategies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bigelow, MN
Significantly reducing the risk of sample adulteration, hair follicle tests are a tamper-resistant method offering reliable results in Bigelow, MN. The observed collection process ensures the integrity of the sample, providing stakeholders with peace of mind and confidence in the authenticity of the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bigelow, MN
Accredited Drug Testing guarantees convenient access to its services with numerous locations throughout Bigelow, MN, and nationwide. Ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process, these centers make it simple for individuals and companies to obtain the necessary drug testing services promptly and efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bigelow, MN
The process for ordering and completing a hair follicle drug test is straightforward and confidential in Bigelow, MN. Accredited Testing ensures privacy is maintained throughout, addressing any concerns regarding confidentiality while guaranteeing ease of use and reliability every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bigelow, MN
In Bigelow, MN, the competitive pricing combined with quick turnaround times for hair follicle drug tests provides exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. This cost-effective approach ensures that companies can meet their testing needs efficiently without compromising on quality or service.
Fast, Accurate, Reliable Results in Bigelow, MN
In Bigelow, MN, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for delivering rapid and precise outcomes. Detecting substance use with high accuracy, these tests offer a level of reliability unmatched by other methods. Their efficiency not only saves time but also provides confidence in the results obtained for communities and corporations alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bigelow, MN
Hair follicle testing offers employers in Bigelow, MN, the assurance of compliance with drug-free workplace policies. These tests mitigate legal risks and enhance safety by ensuring substance use is identified accurately, maintaining a secure and efficient working environment.
