Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and substances by embedding biomarkers in the growing fibers of the hair. When gathered close to the scalp, hair can offer up to around a 90-day detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a specimen weighing 150mg is advisable. It is recommended to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not an option, a comparable amount of body hair may be used. References to head hair are solely about scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This step verifies the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial, rapid assessment for drug presence. Although cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most cases, positive screening results require confirmation for legal validity. Any samples flagged as presumptive positives in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
For samples flagged as positive during Screening, further hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. This stage extracts drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug testing is the most challenging to perform.
Confirmation of positive screening results is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are washed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the process examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Hair follicle testing in Eveleth, MN is becoming the preferred method due to its superior detection accuracy over traditional urine tests. This method provides a reliable assessment over a longer period, catching instances urine tests might miss.
The benefits of hair testing include a longer detection window and nearly impossible tampering, offering greater reliability than urine testing. This makes it a favorable choice for employers with strict substance policies.
In Eveleth, MN, hair follicle tests offer an extended detection window of up to 90 days, providing a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance use history. This surpasses shorter detection methods like urine tests, which are limited in time.
This prolonged detection capability helps employers gauge an applicant's history more accurately, benefiting workplace safety and policy compliance. It's a crucial tool for thorough evaluations.
For Eveleth, MN testing, hair follicle methods prominently reduce tampering risks. Unlike urine tests, which are vulnerable to adulteration, hair tests offer reliable results due to their tamper-resistant nature.
With their design ensuring the integrity of the sample, hair tests provide peace of mind, delivering simplified, unquestionable outcomes for both employers and individuals seeking accurate assessments.
In Eveleth, MN, and beyond, our network of nationwide testing centers offers unmatched convenience. Access to testing is quick and hassle-free, ensuring clients can easily partake in necessary assessments without inconvenience.
Local centers seamlessly integrate with this network, allowing broad coverage that meets diverse testing needs efficiently and effectively.
Our process in Eveleth, MN is both simple and confidential, easing privacy concerns. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure is designed with discretion and user-friendliness in mind.
This clear and straightforward approach fosters comfort, allowing users to navigate the testing process with confidence in the privacy and accuracy of their results.
Eveleth, MN offers affordable pricing and fast turnaround for hair follicle testing. With competitive rates, companies of all sizes can benefit from quality testing that does not compromise speed or accuracy.
This blend of value and efficiency ensures clients receive high-standard results promptly, adding to the reliability and appeal of our services.
In Eveleth, MN, hair follicle drug tests are recognized for their precision and speed in delivering results. Their ability to accurately detect substances makes them a reliable choice for employers and individuals aiming for accurate substance use assessment.
The test's high accuracy is a cornerstone in ensuring the detection of drugs, offering enhanced confidence in the results compared to other methods. This swift and precise process is integral for those seeking dependable outcomes.
Employers in Eveleth, MN find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, which aids compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks and enhances overall workplace safety.
By integrating these tests into their protocols, companies can maintain clear standards, ensuring a secure and safe environment that meets legal requirements.
