Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations are recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken from near the scalp, it can provide a detection period of up to three months for alcohol and various drugs. This method of collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample length of 1.5 inches comprising around 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil's width) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the preferred quantity for both initial tests and subsequent confirmations. For EtG, additional tests, and assays exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, a similar volume of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair forms (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step of integrating a sample into a lab's framework. This involves ensuring the sample was sealed and delivered correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling additional data entries that aren't covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening initiates with a rapid evaluation for substance abuse. Although Screening offers an economical method to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for courtroom validity. Samples testing positive during Screening must undergo further confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive during Screening, more hair is retrieved from the initial collection for the Extraction phase. In this process, drug compounds are isolated from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis is a particularly intricate practice.
Confirmation for any positive Screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Pre-confirmation, all presumptive positives are cleansed as required. The full laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and aligns with the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", this procedure examines the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hopewell, MS
Hair follicle testing offers superior detection over traditional urine tests. The method provides enhanced accuracy and reliability, ensuring substances consumed over a longer period are detected. In comparison, urine tests often miss substances consumed in the distant past, making hair testing a more effective choice for thorough drug detection.
Extended Detection Window in Hopewell, MS
Hair follicle testing boasts a remarkable ability to trace drug use over a long duration, up to 90 days. This extended window offers employers a detailed view of an individual's past drug use, allowing for informed decisions regarding employment or legal conditions. It presents a comprehensive examination of substance history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hopewell, MS
The hair follicle test is a robust method against tampering. Its resistance to sample adulteration ensures results are reliable and accurate. Unlike some other testing methods, the collection process and inherent characteristics of the hair sample significantly reduce the risk of manipulation, providing peace of mind to employers and authorities.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hopewell, MS
With Accredited Drug Testing, accessing our services is seamless. Our nationwide centers and local sites in Hopewell ensure easy availability and convenience. Whether you're coordinating a one-time test or a regular screening schedule, our facilities guarantee a straightforward and stress-free testing process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hopewell, MS
The hair follicle testing process is both straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the process is designed with user privacy in mind. Individuals can be assured their information is handled discreetly, enabling a worry-free experience when undergoing drug testing in Hopewell.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hopewell, MS
Our testing services not only deliver rapid results but also come at competitive prices. This combination of affordability and efficiency provides exceptional value for businesses of all sizes in Hopewell, ensuring they receive top-notch service without breaking the bank.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hopewell, MS
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision. In detecting substance use, they stand out due to their ability to provide highly accurate results quickly. Companies and individuals in Hopewell can rely on these tests for their quick turnaround and unquestionable accuracy, making them essential for comprehensive drug screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hopewell, MS
Employing hair follicle testing guarantees adherence to workplace drug policies, thus reducing legal risks. Employers gain confidence that their policies remain intact and that their work environment is safe and drug-free, ensuring compliant and responsible practices are followed diligently across the board.
