Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessment has emerged as an influential technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and illicit substances by securing biomarkers within the strands of the developing hair fiber. When clipped close to the scalp, hair can offer up to a roughly 3-month observation window for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat tough to alter, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair is unobtainable, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other forms of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary four steps entailed in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning comprises the initial handling of a specimen into a lab’s protocol. This entails affirming the specimen was securely sealed and sent correctly, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and carrying out any further data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening involves an initial rapid evaluation for substances of abuse. Though Screening is an economically viable method to exclude drug usage across most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for court acceptability. Any specimens flagged as presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a secondary verification.
If a specimen shows presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, more hair is gathered from the initial sample and set for Extraction. At this phase, substances are isolated from hair at a notably lower concentration than other techniques (eg., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is among the most challenging techniques to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptively positive undergo washing prior to confirmation as required. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests", the test itself evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Aberdeen, MS
In Aberdeen, MS, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine testing due to its superior detection capabilities. Unlike urine tests, which offer a much narrower window, hair follicle tests provide a comprehensive view of past substance usage.
Extended Detection Window in Aberdeen, MS
The hair follicle testing method offers an extensive detection window that spans up to 90 days. This provides employers in Aberdeen, MS a comprehensive understanding of an employee's or applicant's substance use history. The longer detection period ensures a broad insight into individual's habits and contributes to more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Aberdeen, MS
Hair follicle testing is a robust, tamper-resistant method which minimizes the risk of sample adulteration. This feature gives employers in Aberdeen, MS peace of mind, ensuring the provision of accurate and reliable results. The structured collection process further fortifies the authenticity and dependability of the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Aberdeen, MS
With widespread testing centers, hair follicle testing in Aberdeen, MS is both convenient and efficient. Our network of facilities ensures nearby access to services for individuals and companies, simplifying the entire testing process. Clients benefit from seamless access, saving time and minimizing effort in scheduling tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Aberdeen, MS
Hair follicle testing in Aberdeen, MS is characterized by a straightforward and confidential process. Ordering, undergoing tests, and receiving results is made user-friendly, ensuring privacy and ease of access. This smooth process ensures that all individuals feel secure and assured during the testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Aberdeen, MS
With competitive pricing, hair follicle testing offers great value and rapid results for businesses in Aberdeen, MS. The affordability of our services makes high-quality testing accessible, while ensuring fast turnaround times aids in prompt decision-making for employers looking to maintain or enhance workplace policies.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Aberdeen, MS
Hair follicle testing provides swift and precise results, making it an invaluable tool in Aberdeen, MS. The process effectively highlights recent and past substance use with great accuracy. The reliability of hair testing ensures that both employers and employees receive timely results, thereby facilitating informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Aberdeen, MS
Hair follicle testing ensures compliance with workplace drug policies, providing employers in Aberdeen, MS peace of mind by reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. The adherence to stringent testing standards helps maintain a drug-free workplace, fostering a productive and secure working environment.