Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has attained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a repository for long-term histories of alcohol and drug use by encasing biomarkers within the fiber structure of the developing hair strand. When sourced from near the scalp, hair can yield a detection window extending up to roughly three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair can be gathered easily, is challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
An ideal specimen for screening and verification involves a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, amounting to 100mg of hair. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is recommended. In cases where scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair is a viable alternative. In mentioning head hair, the reference is solely to scalp hair, while body hair pertains to all other varieties of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key steps in the laboratory handling of a drug testing outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, a sample undergoes initial processing into the laboratory's system. This involves ensuring the sample was appropriately sealed and dispatched, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data not provided via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment to check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening serves as an economical approach to exclude drug use in the bulk of samples, a confirmed positive result is mandatory for court admissibility. Samples deemed presumptively positive during the Screening phase require a subsequent confirmation procedure.
During the Extraction phase, if a sample tests presumptively positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is utilized from the original sample for preparation. Drugs are isolated at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug screening as the most challenging technique to carry out.
Confirmation for any presumptive positive screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Necessary presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although widely termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Clinton, MS
Extended Detection Window in Clinton, MS
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing, covering up to 90 days, provides an expansive view of an individual's substance use history.
This comprehensive overview is invaluable for employers making informed hiring or retention decisions. Hair testing uncovers patterns that might be overlooked with shorter-detection methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Clinton, MS
Hair follicle tests offer a robust method that greatly mitigates the risk of tampering, ensuring credible results in Clinton, MS.
The secure process involved in collecting hair samples leaves minimal room for adulteration, reinforcing trust in the test outcomes. Reliable testing translates to peace of mind for all involved parties.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Clinton, MS
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide offers unmatched convenience, enabling seamless access to hair follicle testing services.
Whether in Clinton, MS or beyond, our nearby centers ensure efficient service delivery, eliminating unnecessary stress and streamlining the testing process for all participants.
Simple, Confidential Process in Clinton, MS
Our straightforward and confidential hair follicle testing process addresses privacy and user-friendliness. From ordering the test to obtaining results, each step prioritizes discretion and clarity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Clinton, MS
Our competitive pricing and quick result turnaround make hair follicle testing a cost-effective option in Clinton, MS.
Offering excellent value for businesses of all sizes, our services ensure peace of mind by delivering efficient and reliable solutions without breaking the budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Clinton, MS
Hair follicle drug testing in Clinton, MS ensures precise and swift results, helping employers and individuals detect substance use efficiently. The high accuracy of hair tests guarantees trustworthy outcomes, allowing for informed decisions regarding drug use assessments.
With rapid result turnaround, disruptions are minimized, promoting seamless workplace functionality.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Clinton, MS
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports adherence to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks.
