Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol use. Hair serves as a long-term record for alcohol and various drugs by capturing biomarkers within the hair strand fibers as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month detection period for substances and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) taken from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, or panels exceeding 10, a specimen of 150mg is advised. It's suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair can't be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair solely imply scalp hair, while body hair covers all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results consists of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step where the sample is incorporated into the laboratory system. This step entails confirming proper sealing and dispatch of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial swift evaluation for drug abuse. Although an economical method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screening result necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Presumptive positives from Screening require further verification.
In instances of presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is utilized from the original specimen for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening notably challenging.
Any positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a preliminary wash before confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis pertains to the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Walnut Grove, MS
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing stands out in Walnut Grove, MS, for its superior detection accuracy and reliability. This method boasts a longer detection window, capturing drug use history comprehensively. Employers find it invaluable, offering a broader view of an individual’s drug habits, greatly aiding in policy enforcement and decision-making.
Extended Detection Window in Walnut Grove, MS
Hair follicle testing is distinguished by its ability to detect drug use up to 90 days prior, providing a detailed account of an individual's substance use history. This extensive detection period is especially beneficial for employers seeking to maintain a clear overview of applicants' or employees' drug usage, ensuring safety and compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Walnut Grove, MS
In Walnut Grove, MS, hair follicle tests provide undeniable advantages by remarkably minimizing the risk of sample tampering. These tests deliver results that are both trustworthy and difficult to manipulate, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the outcomes, which is paramount for legal and employment settings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Walnut Grove, MS
With Accredited Drug Testing, accessing hair follicle testing is straightforward. Our extensive network of nationwide centers, including those in Walnut Grove, MS, provides seamless and hassle-free access to testing services. This convenience underscores our commitment to meeting diverse testing needs promptly and efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Walnut Grove, MS
Accredited Drug Testing in Walnut Grove, MS, ensures a process that is both simple and confidential. Ordering, administering, and receiving results is handled with utmost privacy, addressing concerns about user information security and simplifying the testing process for all parties involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Walnut Grove, MS
In Walnut Grove, MS, our hair follicle testing services are priced competitively, ensuring affordable access to top-tier drug testing. Coupled with rapid turnaround times, we provide businesses with exceptional value, allowing them to maintain drug-free policies confidently without straining budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Walnut Grove, MS
When it comes to drug testing, precision and quick results are crucial. Hair follicle drug tests in Walnut Grove, MS, offer exceptional accuracy, efficiently pinpointing substance use. The method's robust nature ensures reliable outcomes, aiding businesses and courts in making informed decisions quickly and confidently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Walnut Grove, MS
Utilizing hair follicle testing assures employers in Walnut Grove, MS, of compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal exposure and fortifies safety, granting employers peace of mind. It stands as a pivotal tool in securing a reliable and secure working environment.
