Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a potent instrument for identifying the usage of drugs and alcohol. The historical use of alcohol and other substances can be traced through hair, as it captures biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. Collected from near the scalp, it offers an approximate detection period of 3 months for substances like alcohol. The collection of hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hairs (approximating a #2 pencil's diameter) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for analysis. For comprehensive tests such as EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is preferable. Using a jeweler’s scale is advised for weighing the sample. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair is acceptable. By 'head hair', we mean scalp hair specifically, while 'body hair' pertains to all other forms (such as facial or axillary).
Process Overview
There are four principal stages in processing a drug test result at a lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial process of entering a sample into the laboratory's system. This step ensures that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and inputs any additional data not covered by an electronic custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary, rapid assessment for drug substances. While it economically eliminates the possibility of drug use for most samples, any positive result must be confirmed for legal validity. Presumptive positives during Screening necessitate confirmation.
Presumptive positive samples trigger the extraction of more hair from the initial sample for Extraction, where drugs are sourced from hair at even lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or saliva), making it a complicated procedure.
Confirmation of positive screening results uses techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation. The whole laboratory sequence, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed "hair follicle tests", these tests actually examine the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Is Superior in Twin Lakes, MN
Hair follicle testing offers a distinct advantage over conventional urine tests with its superior detection capabilities and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which are limited to recent usage, hair testing provides a far-reaching view into substance use history, up to 90 days.
Extended Detection Window in Twin Lakes, MN
The hair follicle method provides a broad detection window, extending up to 90 days. This allows employers to have a detailed understanding of a person's drug use history over an extended period, leading to more informed decisions during recruitment and monitoring.
Secure Testing in Twin Lakes, MN
Hair follicle tests profoundly minimize the likelihood of result tampering. By using a method that is inherently difficult to cheat, they yield reliable and accurate outcomes that can withstand scrutiny and provide dependable results.
Convenient Testing Locations in Twin Lakes, MN
Our vast network of testing centers across the nation, along with local facilities in Twin Lakes, MN, guarantees effortless access to drug testing services. Individuals can benefit from the swift and straightforward process at any of our convenient locations.
Private and Straightforward Process in Twin Lakes, MN
We prioritize confidentiality, making the ordering, testing, and result retrieval process simple and discreet. Clients can rest assured knowing their data is handled with the utmost privacy, maintaining ease and comfort throughout.
Cost-Effective and Quick Results in Twin Lakes, MN
Our competitive pricing and fast turnaround time offer excellent value for businesses of varying sizes. Clients benefit from timely results and cost-effective solutions, reinforcing our commitment to excellence in service.
Fast and Reliable Results in Twin Lakes, MN
Hair follicle drug tests in Twin Lakes, MN, are renowned for their precision and speed. The process is designed to deliver high accuracy in identifying substance use, granting individuals and organizations the peace of mind that comes with dependable testing outcomes.
Compliance and Assurance in Twin Lakes, MN
Employers gain peace of mind by integrating hair follicle testing into their drug-free workplace policies. This testing method not only ensures adherence to regulatory requirements but also mitigates potential legal complications and enhances workplace safety.
