Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can capture a timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands. If collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection period extending up to around 3 months for substances like alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, with challenges in tampering, and it can be conveniently transported.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, optimal for analysis. For EtG testing, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be taken. It's important to note that 'head hair' refers to scalp hair exclusively, whereas 'body hair' denotes all other types (such as facial or underarm hair).
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the laboratory handling of drug test outcomes, specifically: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary processing of a sample into the lab's system. This entails confirming the sample's secure sealing and shipment, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data input not provided through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening executes a preliminary examination for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method for eliminating drug use for most cases, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for legal acceptability. Samples with an initial positive result in Screening require subsequent verification.
On obtaining a presumptively positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the existing sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower levels than with other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug screening a challenging procedure.
The Confirmation stage for any positive screening results employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples indicating presumptive positivity undergo pre-confirmation washing if needed. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review in compliance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation norms.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the actual hair strands and not the follicles beneath the surface.
Benefits of Hair Follicle Testing Over Urine Tests in Lewisville, MN
Hair tests provide superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine testing methods. With a longer detection window, hair testing offers a more comprehensive overview of drug use, enhancing screening efficacy.
Extended Detection Window in Lewisville, MN
Hair follicle tests can detect drug use for up to 90 days, granting employers a broader scope of their employees’ or applicants' substance history. This extended window is invaluable for making informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lewisville, MN
The risk of sample adulteration is significantly minimized with hair follicle testing. This method ensures trustworthy and indisputable results, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of drug testing procedures.
Convenient Testing Locations in Lewisville, MN and Nationwide
With a network of testing centers nationwide, accessing our services is quick and easy. The availability of local locations ensures that your testing needs are met swiftly and without hassle.
Simple and Confidential Process in Lewisville, MN
Our hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize ease and privacy, addressing any concerns our clients might have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lewisville, MN
We offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times for hair follicle drug testing. This combination delivers excellent value, making it accessible for companies of all sizes to maintain their drug-free policies.
Fast and Accurate Results in Lewisville, MN
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and quick turnaround. In Lewisville, MN, these tests provide highly accurate insights into an individual’s substance use, making them a preferred choice for employers seeking reliable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lewisville, MN
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids in maintaining compliance with workplace drug-free policies. It helps mitigate legal risks while enhancing the safety and productivity of the workplace environment.
