Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The assessment of drug and alcohol use through hair testing has gained recognition as an effective technique. Hair strands capture biomarkers within its fibers, offering a long-term profile of substance consumption. When obtained near the scalp, the hair testing window can span approximately three months for detecting alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, presenting a high resistance to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch segment from roughly 200 strands of hair, equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil, proximate to the scalp yields 100 mg, which is optimal for both screening and verification. For tests involving EtG, or extending beyond 10 panels, a 150 mg specimen is advisable. It is suggested to use a jeweler's scale for specimen measurement. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for drug test analysis includes four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is introduced into a laboratory's system, which involves ensuring proper sealing and shipping, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody.
Screening conducts an initial evaluation for substances of abuse. Though efficient to mostly rule out drug consumption across samples, legal validation of a positive result requires confirmation. Thus, samples with presumptive positives in Screening need further verification.
When a sample tests presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is utilized from the primary specimen and prepared for Extraction. This phase retrieves drugs from hair at notably lower concentrations than via other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), showcasing the complexity of hair drug screening.
Verification of a positive screening outcome occurs through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Necessary presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation. The complete laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the subsurface hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Circle Pines, MN
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine methods. It provides a broader substance detection range, making it a preferred choice among employers and professionals focused on substance abuse prevention. The results from hair testing are known to be more reliable, ensuring no recent drug usage goes unnoticed over time.
Extended Detection Window in Circle Pines, MN
With an impressive detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing offers a comprehensive review of substance use history. This extended timeframe is invaluable for employers aiming to understand an employee or candidate's past decisions, providing unparalleled clarity on their approach to substance abuse, which urine tests cannot offer.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Circle Pines, MN
Hair follicle tests drastically cut down sample tampering risks, offering results that organizations can trust. This method’s robust nature makes it nearly impossible to alter or falsify, safeguarding the integrity and truthfulness of the test results, and assuring confidence for employers and professionals relying on accurate data.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Circle Pines, MN
We offer countless nationwide testing centers, ensuring hassle-free access to reliable testing services. Whether local in Circle Pines or spread across the nation, our facilities are prepared to deliver quick, efficient testing experiences for all needs, streamlining the process significantly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Circle Pines, MN
The process for booking, undergoing, and receiving results for hair follicle tests is straightforward and secure, designed to protect privacy. Our service structure facilitates a discreet, easy-to-use experience, addressing concerns effectively while maintaining user confidentiality throughout each stage.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Circle Pines, MN
Our competitive pricing strategies coupled with swift result delivery offers exceptional value. Catering to businesses of all sizes, we ensure that our services not only remain affordable but also provide a speedy resolution to testing requirements, offering economic efficiency without compromising on accuracy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Circle Pines, MN
Hair follicle drug tests offer precision and speed, recognized for their exceptional accuracy. This detection tool sets a high standard in the substance testing arena, ensuring professionals and employers receive reliable data regarding substance use. Hair testing stands above due to its intricate analysis capabilities, providing thorough results quickly and effectively.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Circle Pines, MN
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, reducing legal concerns and bolstering safety standards. Employers gain peace of mind knowing they're meeting compliance obligations and securing an improved work environment devoid of illicit drug challenges.
