Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective mechanism in detecting the consumption of drugs and alcohol. By embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows, it provides a comprehensive history of substance use. When taken close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to around three months for alcohol and other drugs. It's easy to gather, relatively hard to alter, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch length of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly a #2 pencil’s diameter) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the perfect amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, extras, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. In discussing head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair includes other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step where a sample is introduced into a lab’s system. This process ensures proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any required data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as an initial rapid examination for illicit drugs. Although Screening is cost-efficient for ruling out drug usage in most cases, a positive result requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that indicate potential positives in Screening must undergo additional confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. This phase involves drawing drugs from hair at a tremendously lower concentration than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), illustrating why hair drug screening is particularly challenging.
Confirmation of a positive screen is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumed positive outcomes undergo cleansing before confirmation as needed. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being often called "hair follicle tests", the testing involves the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine tests in Flowood, MS, the benefits are clear. Hair tests provide superior detection accuracy and reliability. While traditional urine tests may detect recent drug use, hair follicle tests offer a comprehensive detection timeline, making them a preferred choice for many employers and judicial entities.
The hair follicle testing method used in Flowood, MS excels in providing an extended detection window. Capable of tracing drug use for up to 90 days, these tests give employers a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, which extends well beyond the capabilities of other testing methods.
In Flowood, MS, hair follicle testing provides a tamper-resistant method for drug screening. These tests significantly minimize the potential for sample adulteration, ensuring results that are both reliable and trustworthy. This makes them an ideal choice for entities looking to maintain strict testing standards.
Accredited Drug Testing's network in Flowood, MS includes convenient local and nationwide testing centers. This ensures that individuals and businesses alike have quick, simple, and hassle-free access to testing services, making the entire process efficient and stress-free.
The process of hair follicle testing in Flowood, MS is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step prioritizes privacy and ease, addressing any concerns users may have. This ensures a straightforward and discreet experience for all parties involved.
Flowood, MS offers affordable pricing for hair follicle tests with rapid turnaround times. Businesses can benefit from competitive rates, ensuring great value without compromising quality. The quick and cost-effective service provides peace of mind, catering to companies of varying sizes and needs.
In Flowood, MS, hair follicle drug tests are recognized for their accuracy and speed. Unlike traditional methods, these tests offer precise detection of substance use. The tests swiftly analyze samples, ensuring fast, accurate, and reliable results that benefit both employers and employees seeking clarity and trust in the testing process.
Employers in Flowood, MS can find peace of mind with hair follicle testing. This method ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. With reliable tests, employers can uphold strict drug use policies and foster a safe and compliant work environment.
