Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is widely recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair records a long-term usage history by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a three-month period of alcohol and drug use. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) positioned closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of sample is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If head hair is not obtainable, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory drug test processing involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning consists of the initial incorporation of a specimen into the laboratory system. This step includes confirming that the specimen was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entry tasks absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an immediate assessment for drug abuse. While Screening efficiently eliminates drug use in most samples, confirming a positive screen is necessary for legal admissibility. Any samples that are presumptive positive in Screening require further confirmation.
For samples indicating potential positivity at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing a challenging procedure to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed before confirmation as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in De Kalb, MS
Hair testing trumps urine tests by offering superior detection. It provides a longer detection timeframe, ensuring comprehensive insights into substance use history. The reliability and accuracy of hair tests surpass that of urine tests, making them a preferred choice in De Kalb, MS.
Extended Detection Window in De Kalb, MS
Hair follicle testing in De Kalb, MS is invaluable for its ability to reveal drug use over prolonged periods, up to 90 days. This extended detection timeframe offers employers a more complete view of an individual’s drug history, enhancing decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in De Kalb, MS
Hair follicle tests minimize sample adulteration risks, providing trustworthy results. This makes them a reliable choice in De Kalb, MS, as the observed collection process contributes to the integrity and dependability of the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in De Kalb, MS
Accredited Drug Testing boasts numerous nationwide facilities, including local options in De Kalb, MS. This wide-reaching presence ensures hassle-free access to essential testing services, providing clients with convenience and speed in obtaining testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in De Kalb, MS
The testing process in De Kalb, MS is straightforward and respects confidentiality from ordering to result acquisition. This assures individuals that their privacy and ease of use are prioritized at every stage of the testing procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in De Kalb, MS
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing coupled with rapid result delivery in De Kalb, MS, ensuring excellent value. This combination is ideal for companies aiming to manage costs while still accessing fast, reliable testing outcomes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in De Kalb, MS
In De Kalb, MS, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their speed and precision in pinpointing substance use. These tests deliver quick outcomes while upholding a high degree of accuracy, making them a dependable choice for employers looking for fast results without compromising on reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in De Kalb, MS
Hair follicle testing supports employer compliance with drug-free workplace initiatives, reducing legal risks while ensuring a safe and productive environment. It offers employers in De Kalb, MS peace of mind, bolstering workplace efficiency and safety.
