Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-standing record of drug and alcohol usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. When taken from near the scalp, the hair can reveal a detection period of approximately three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair can be effortlessly collected, is relatively hard to tamper with, and is straightforward to transport.
A collection of 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is considered the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be accessible, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. Reference to head hair specifically concerns scalp hair. Conversely, body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four core steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial step of recording a sample in a laboratory’s database. This step is crucial for confirming that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any outstanding data entry not covered by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for identifying drugs of abuse. While Screening efficiently rules out drug usage in most samples on a cost-effective basis, a positive indication in Screening demands confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples with a presumptive positive result necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
If Screening yields a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the main specimen to prepare for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are separated from hair in far lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug screening is the most complex technique to administer.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo a washing process as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Round Prairie, MN
Hair follicle testing offers significant advantages over traditional urine tests, particularly in the realm of detection accuracy and reliability. With an extended detection window and reduced likelihood of tampering, hair testing provides superior results, making it a preferred choice in Round Prairie.
Extended Detection Window in Round Prairie, MN
Hair follicle testing extends its detection capabilities over a prolonged period, often up to 90 days. This extensive window supplies employers with an in-depth perspective on an employee or candidate's drug usage history, facilitating informed decision-making in the workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Round Prairie, MN
The hair follicle drug test is a robust approach to prevent sample adulteration. Its tamper-resistant nature ensures credibility and reliability in the results, offering peace of mind to those in Round Prairie relying on these tests for accurate substance detection.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Round Prairie, MN
With a network of testing centers across the nation, including in Round Prairie, we ensure convenient access to our services. This widespread availability guarantees that testing is fast, straightforward, and hassle-free, no matter the location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Round Prairie, MN
Our process is straightforward and confidential for ordering, administering, and receiving test results. This approach ensures privacy and ease, addressing any concerns users may have about the complexity or confidentiality of the testing procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Round Prairie, MN
We emphasize competitive pricing structures and brisk turnaround times to provide exceptional value, catering to businesses of varying sizes. Our pricing and quick results offer assurance to companies seeking efficient and cost-effective testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Round Prairie, MN
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision, delivering quick and accurate detection of substance use. This method ensures timely and trustworthy outcomes, enabling individuals and institutions in Round Prairie to rely on the high accuracy of these tests for substance use detection.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Round Prairie, MN
Employers in Round Prairie who employ hair follicle testing programs can maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies. The utilization of these tests mitigates legal risks and promotes workplace safety, granting peace of mind and regulatory compliance.
