Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a timeline for alcohol and drug intake, capturing biomarkers within the hair strand's fibrous structure. When shaved near the scalp, they can reveal up to a three-month period for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, tampering poses a challenge, and transport is convenient.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg, which is the perfect sample size for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding ten panels, it is advisable to have 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen is suggested. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. 'Head hair' specifically pertains to scalp hair, while 'body hair' includes all other forms (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes a drug test outcome through four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is about initially integrating a sample into a lab's records. This step confirms the sample’s appropriate sealing and transport, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data logging not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While it's a cost-efficient technique to discount drug consumption in a substantial number of samples, a positive result in this preliminary screen requires validation to be legally valid. Any samples that appear to be positive in Screening do need additional confirmation.
When a sample indicates a possible positive in Screening, additional hair is separated from the original specimen for Extraction. In this stage, from hair, drugs are isolated at a notably lower concentration compared to alternative techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening stands as the most complex approach.
Any positive result from the screening is confirmed by GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Those samples labeled presumptively positive undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The entire lab process spanning Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the hair follicle underneath the scalp.
In Butterfield, MN, hair follicle tests outshine traditional urine tests in several ways. They offer unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability, providing detailed insights into drug use. Unlike urine tests, they can reveal substance patterns over a much longer period, making them the preferred option for many employers and professionals seeking comprehensive results.
Hair follicle testing in Butterfield, MN, dramatically enhances the detection window for drug use. Unlike other methods, it provides a look back into substance use for up to 90 days. This extended timeframe offers employers valuable insights into an applicant or employee's history, ensuring informed decisions based on expansive historical data.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Butterfield, MN, reduces the risk of sample tampering significantly. This method is inherently resistant to adulteration, offering results that can be trusted without question. The reliability of this testing method means that employers and professionals can be assured of the authenticity of the findings.
Convenience is paramount with nationwide testing centers, including locations in Butterfield, MN. These centers make accessing testing services quick and straightforward, with hassle-free options for all individuals. The widespread availability of testing centers ensures that you can obtain the services you need with ease.
In Butterfield, MN, the process for ordering, taking, and receiving hair follicle test results is uncomplicated and private. Customers can rest assured that their privacy is a priority, with procedures designed to ensure ease of use and confidentiality from start to finish.
Our services in Butterfield, MN, boast competitive pricing and fast turnaround. These benefits provide outstanding value to companies of all sizes, ensuring not only affordability but also prompt and reliable service delivery, which is vital in maintaining smooth operations and client satisfaction.
In Butterfield, MN, hair follicle tests deliver quick, precise results. These tests excel in detecting substances thoroughly, ensuring you receive the most accurate evaluations. Their speed and precision make them incredibly beneficial for those needing reliable and timely results, maintaining their status as a superior choice for drug testing requirements.
Employers in Butterfield, MN, can find peace of mind with hair follicle testing. This method ensures compliance with workplace drug policies, minimizing legal exposure and enhancing overall safety. By choosing hair testing, businesses support a drug-free environment, helping maintain a productive and secure workplace atmosphere.
