Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as a robust method for detecting substance use, hair testing reveals a timeline of drug and alcohol consumption by embedding biomarkers within the hair's fibers. When obtained adjacent to the scalp, this method can reveal drug and alcohol use for a span of nearly three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (comparable to the girth of a #2 pencil) near the scalp will weigh approximately 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation processes. For tests that include EtG, additional testing, and/or exceed 10 panel tests, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" denotes only scalp hair, while "body hair" comprises other hair forms (such as facial and axillary hairs).
Process Overview
The four essential phases in the laboratory processing of a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the preliminary processing of samples into the laboratory’s system. This step includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial swift evaluation for drugs of abuse. Even though Screening offers a cost-efficient measure to eliminate drug usage for the majority of samples, a positive screen demands confirmation to stand in court. Samples with a presumptive positive result during Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
If a sample registers as presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at a significantly diminished concentration compared to other methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), positioning hair drug screening as the most intricate methodology to conduct.
Recognition of any positive screening result occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Samples registering presumptive positive undergo washing before confirmation as required. A comprehensive review of the laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation ensues under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly named "hair follicle tests," this evaluation inspects the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing at Mississippi Valley State University, MS comes down to its extensive accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle tests capture evidence of substance use over a longer period, ensuring a more precise detection. This superior method addresses discrepancies often encountered in standard urine tests, establishing itself as a trustworthy alternative for effective drug monitoring.
Extended Detection Window is a remarkable feature of hair follicle testing at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. It provides a comprehensive view of substance history, capturing drug usage for up to 90 days. This extensive period enables employers to gauge past behavior more accurately, thus offering a robust basis for evaluating an individual's substance use history compared to other testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method offers high efficacy at Mississippi Valley State University, MS by minimizing adulteration risks. Hair follicle testing's robust nature deters manipulation, producing results that are dependable and trustworthy. As a result, this method guarantees the integrity and quality of samples, reducing uncertainties and enhancing confidence in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations extend the accessibility of hair follicle tests at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. Our expansive network ensures that testing services are reachable locally and across the country, offering an easy and efficient process for users. This convenience supports smooth and stress-free access to drug testing for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process marks the hallmark of hair follicle testing at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. Every step — from ordering to receiving results — is conducted with utmost privacy and simplicity. This streamlined procedure alleviates concerns over confidentiality, giving users a hassle-free and confidential experience throughout the testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround define the hair follicle testing services at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. Our competitive pricing structures coupled with rapid processing times deliver excellent value. These features not only offer peace of mind for businesses of all sizes but also reinforce our commitment to cost-effective and timely drug testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results are swiftly delivered with hair follicle drug tests at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. Thanks to advanced technology, these tests provide high precision in substance detection. Minimizing waiting time, this method ensures rapid retrieval of results while maintaining credibility and accuracy, making it a preferred choice for timely drug testing needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers are assured through hair follicle testing at Mississippi Valley State University, MS. This method ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, thereby reducing potential legal challenges. Employers gain reassurance in maintaining a safe environment, enhancing overall workplace security with a testing practice grounded in precision and accuracy.