Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within the fibrous structure of a growing strand, providing a comprehensive historical record of substance use. When obtained near the scalp, it can detect drug and alcohol use over an extensive period of around three months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximating the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG additions and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a total of 150mg is recommended. It's advisable to use a jeweler's scale for verifying the sample's weight. If scalp hair sampling isn’t feasible, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair alone. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step in integrating a sample into a lab’s system. This stage involves checking that the sample's seal and shipping were intact, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing data entry tasks not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening tests for drug presence initially and swiftly. Although Screening is cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most cases, positive results from this phase need confirmation for court validity. Samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate subsequent confirmation.
For samples that screen positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this step, drugs are extracted with a significantly lower concentration of substances compared to methods like urine or oral fluid tests, underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening procedures.
Confirmation of Screening-positive results utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand rather than the scalp's hair follicle
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Holland, MN
Hair testing offers unparalleled benefits over traditional urine tests. The notable length of detection and resistance to tampering enhance its accuracy and dependability. Employers benefit from this robust method due to its capacity to reveal long-term drug use, outshining urine tests, which are limited to detecting only recent consumption.
Extended Detection Window in Holland, MN
The advantage of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior, providing a comprehensive view of an individual’s drug history. Employers gain insightful data, furnishing a reliable narrative of an applicant or staff member's substance interactions, empowering them with more informed hiring or evaluation decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Holland, MN
Hair follicle tests stand as a stalwart against sample adulteration, delivering unquestionable reliability. As a methodology, it minimizes risks of tampering, assuring stakeholders of authentic results. This security ensures the integrity of testing processes, elevating it above other vulnerable testing methods like urine analysis.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Holland, MN
Our expansive network of testing sites offers unmatched convenience, facilitating stress-free access for individuals requiring tests. Whether local or nationwide, our presence ensures that everyone can avail themselves of comprehensive testing services without unnecessary complications or delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Holland, MN
Navigating the testing process is straightforward and discreet, addressing privacy concerns earnestly. From ordering to receiving results, the process is made seamless. By prioritizing confidentiality, we ensure that clients can engage with complete comfort and assurance in the protection of their privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Holland, MN
Our competitive pricing paired with expedited turnaround times offers exceptional value. We cater to companies big and small, providing reasonable rates without compromising on quality. Clients benefit from not just cost savings but also the rapid availability of critical testing information.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Holland, MN
Experience the swift precision of hair follicle tests, renowned for their high accuracy and capability to discern substance usage efficiently. This testing method streamlines the verification process, enabling faster decision-making for employers. Its reliability in uncovering information others might miss bolsters its reputation as a superior standard in testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Holland, MN
Employers reliant on hair follicle testing can rest easy knowing they're upholding drug-free policies robustly. It’s a linchpin in achieving workplace safety and mitigating legal exposures. The method ensures adherence to compliance demands, aiding organizations in maintaining secure, lawful environments.
