Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for uncovering substance use. Hair captures long-term substance history by trapping biomarkers within its fibers. When cut near the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol usage over an approximate 3-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields about 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests over 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, equivalent body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to the scalp hair. "Body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of drug test results involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the sample's initial entry into a laboratory's system, ensuring it was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing missing data not provided by electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary test for drug presence. Though cost-effective for ruling out drug use in many samples, a positive screening requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo subsequent confirmation.
For presumptive positives identified during Screening, extra hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair analysis a more intricate testing methodology.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive screening outcomes. Before confirmation, presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation aligns with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The test often called "hair follicle test" actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle itself under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint Michael, MN
When comparing hair strand analysis to urine tests, hair testing stands out due to its superior detection precision and robustness. Its ability to provide undeniable evidence of substance use offers a dependable alternative, making it a preferred choice over conventional urine analyses.
Extended Detection Window in Saint Michael, MN
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection span, capturing drug usage for up to 90 days. This extended timeframe allows employers to thoroughly understand an individual's past drug involvement, aiding in hiring or monitoring decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint Michael, MN
By significantly lowering the potential for sample tampering, hair follicle tests deliver dependable results. These tests are designed to withstand adulteration attempts, ensuring the integrity of the examination process while producing unquestionable findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Saint Michael, MN
Our testing facilities are widespread, providing quick and convenient access across the country, including Saint Michael locations. This network ensures streamlined testing, minimizing delays and facilitating hassle-free experiences.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint Michael, MN
The process of hair follicle testing is straightforward and ensures confidentiality, from booking to results. These practices protect individual privacy and make the test simple to navigate, focusing on ease of use and discreet handling.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint Michael, MN
Our competitive pricing models, paired with swift result delivery, offer exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. The quick turnaround time reassures companies while maintaining budget-friendly solutions for necessary testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint Michael, MN
Hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and expediency, providing reliable insights into substance use patterns. The testing process's meticulous accuracy ensures that individuals engaged in substance intake are correctly identified, facilitating informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint Michael, MN
Utilizing hair follicle tests aligns with workplace policies for a drug-free environment, thus diminishing legal liabilities. It enhances employee safety by creating an accountable work culture, granting employers peace of mind.
