Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand, offering a historical record of substance intake. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to three months for drugs and alcohol. Its collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A 1.5-inch lock of approximately 200 hair strands (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg, an optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or assays beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, equivalent body hair can be collected. 'Head hair' exclusively refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary integration of a sample into a lab's system, which involves verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipment, designating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any supplemental data entry not available via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening comprises a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While screening is an economical means to dismiss drug usage in most samples, a screen yielding a positive result needs to be confirmed for legal acceptability. Samples deemed presumptively positive during screening necessitate additional confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is retrieved from the original specimen for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug testing the most complex to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive specimens undergo a washing process prior to confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab procedure is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Fountain, MN
Hair follicle testing offers a superior detection window of up to 90 days, far exceeding the limited timeframe of urine tests. This gives employers and agencies a more comprehensive insight into an individual's substance use history, aiding in more informed decision-making.
Moreover, hair tests eliminate the need for invasive procedures and reduce the risk of sample tampering, making them a robust choice over the conventional urine methods. The precision and reliability inherent in hair testing provide a solid foundation for maintaining workplace integrity and trust.
Extended Detection Window in Fountain, MN
Unlike conventional methods, hair follicle testing can reveal drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This longest detection time provides employers a thorough understanding of drug usage patterns, crucial for maintaining workplace standards in Fountain, MN.
This extended window aids in assessing consistent substance use rather than isolated incidents, granting a broader perspective of an individual's habits, thus assisting in making more informed decisions regarding employment and policy compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fountain, MN
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods susceptible to adulteration, hair testing ensures that the samples are genuine, providing results that are both reliable and unquestioned.
In Fountain, MN, this robust testing approach contributes to the integrity of workplace and legal standards. The reduced risk of manipulation not only enhances the credibility of the test results but also upholds the trust and safety within organizations and communities.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Fountain, MN
Access to testing has never been easier with our expansive network of facilities. Whether you're in the heart of Fountain, MN, or anywhere nationwide, our centers are conveniently located to serve your needs promptly.
This wide reach ensures that individuals and companies can avail themselves of our services without any hassle, making consultations, testing appointments, and follow-ups straightforward and efficient.
Simple, Confidential Process in Fountain, MN
We prioritize simplicity and confidentiality in all testing processes. In Fountain, MN, clients can expect a streamlined procedure from ordering to receiving results, all while ensuring privacy at every step.
The assurance of discretion combined with ease of access removes any barriers to testing, fostering an environment where individuals and organizations feel comfortable utilizing our services. Your privacy is our priority.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fountain, MN
Our competitive pricing structures ensure that businesses of all sizes can access top-tier testing services without breaking the budget. Fountain, MN benefits from our quick turnaround times, delivering results that are fast yet accurate.
This affordability, combined with rapid processing, provides excellent value and ensures companies can maintain their operational timelines without compromise, offering measurable peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Fountain, MN
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and swiftness in delivering results. Their high accuracy makes them a preferred option in detecting various substances. Fountain, MN particularly benefits from the reliability that these tests offer, ensuring that results reflect true substance use profiles.
Employers and institutions value the speed and reliability associated with hair testing. Unlike traditional methods, these tests streamline the detection process, offering a seamless experience from sample collection to results delivery, ensuring confidence in the data.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fountain, MN
Employers in Fountain, MN benefit immensely from the compliance assurance provided by hair follicle testing. Ensuring adherence to drug-free policies minimizes legal risks and significantly enhances workplace safety.
By incorporating hair testing, companies can confidently enforce their drug policies, protect their workforce, and maintain a professional and secure work environment, providing peace of mind to both employees and employers alike.
