Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now regarded as an effective method for detecting substance and alcohol use. Hair can offer an extended record of alcohol and drug ingestion by embedding biomarkers in the strands of hair as they grow. When cut close to the scalp, hair can provide a detection period of up to about 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect hair samples, which are relatively hard to tamper with and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or panels beyond 10, a sample weighing 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When discussing head hair, we refer solely to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory steps for processing a drug test include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the procedure of integrating a sample into the laboratory system. This involves ensuring the sample's seal and shipment were proper, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing information not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial assessment for drug presence. Though cost-effective for discounting drug usage in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for judicial acceptability. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need further confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial batch for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are separated from hair at much smaller concentrations than in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most intricate methods to conduct.
Any positive screening outcome is confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle within the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Avalon, MS
When comparing hair follicle tests to urine analyses, the former consistently shows its superiority. Hair tests offer a much longer detection window, providing a more thorough historical analysis of substance use. In addition, hair testing is far more challenging to tamper with, providing an edge in maintaining truthful results.
Extended Detection Window in Avalon, MS
A major benefit of hair follicle testing is its prolonged detection span of up to 90 days. This affords employers an extensive understanding of a candidate's or employee's drug usage history, offering a more complete insight than the narrow window offered by conventional testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Avalon, MS
One of the defining features of hair follicle tests is their resistance to sample tampering. This method decreases the likelihood of sample adulteration, ensuring results are both credible and unquestionable. Such reliability is essential for applications where integrity is critical.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Avalon, MS
Accredited Drug Testing offers accessible testing at numerous locations nationwide, ensuring convenience without sacrificing professionalism. Residents of Avalon and customers across the country can benefit from our efficiently operated centers, facilitating easy access to required testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Avalon, MS
Ordering, undergoing, and receiving results through our hair follicle testing is deftly simple and confidential. This streamlined process protects personal privacy while delivering straightforward and efficient service. Concerns about ease and privacy are thoroughly addressed, assuring users of their importance.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Avalon, MS
Our hair testing services in Avalon boast competitive pricing and expedited turnaround periods. This combination provides superior value to organizations irrespective of size, emphasizing both economical pricing structures and commitment to offering expedient services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Avalon, MS
Hair follicle testing in Avalon ensures rapid and accurate detection of substance use. Its precision surpasses traditional methods, making it a favored choice for employers and professionals seeking reliable outcomes. The technology ensures minimal error rates, providing peace of mind with validated and speedy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Avalon, MS
Implementing hair follicle testing helps employers maintain compliance with drug-free workplace regulations, providing a foundation for enhanced safety and reduced legal exposure. This method bolsters assurance for organizations striving for integrity and security.
