Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Affton, MO

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged trace of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the strands as hair grows. When harvested near the scalp, the hair can reveal as much as a 3-month timeframe for substance detection. Collecting hair is straightforward, fairly resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch lock comprising around 200 hair strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp offers 100mg of hair, which is the prime sample size for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional screens, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar amount of body hair can be obtained. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair here, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The drug testing lab process encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning signifies the initial stage of incorporating a sample into a lab's system. This step confirms that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and supplements any missing data entry not integrated through an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening entails a preliminary rapid examination for drugs of abuse. Although Screening efficiently rules out drug usage in most samples, results from a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any samples testing positive during Screening require further confirmation.

If Screening suggests a sample is positive, additional hair is gathered from the initial sample for Extraction. In this step, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging testing methodology.

Confirmation of positive Screening results uses GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples suspected to be positive undergo washing prior to necessary confirmation. The full lab process, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is scrutinized in compliance with the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair tests reveal drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter detection times.
• Hard to compromise: Hair drug tests are tough to manipulate, ensuring more accurate results.
• Tracks historical use: These tests outline a pattern of drug usage over time, rather than just recent activity.

Limitations:

• No recent usage detection: It takes about 5-7 days for drugs to be traceable in hair.
• Higher costs: Hair drug testing generally incurs greater expense compared to other methodologies.
• Variable results: Hair color and individual differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Affton, MO, hair follicle testing excels over urine testing due to its enhanced detection accuracy. These tests identify prolonged substance use, providing a clearer substance abuse history compared to traditional urine tests, which focus primarily on recent consumption.

Employers in Affton appreciate hair tests for their unmatched reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle assessments offer extensive substance detection, ensuring comprehensive screenings and minimizing the risk of manipulations.

Extended Detection Window

One of the standout benefits of hair follicle tests in Affton, MO, is their extended detection window. Capable of identifying substance use for up to 90 days, these tests allow employers to gain a broader understanding of an individual’s substance history.

This prolonged detection capability offers businesses peace of mind, ensuring that long-term substance usage patterns are detected, aiding in making informed decisions about hires and current employees alike.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Affton, MO, set the standard for tamper-resistant results. Unlike tests susceptible to manipulation, hair samples provide near-impenetrable proof of past substance use, yielding trustworthy results every time.

The methodology employed in hair testing significantly decreases the possibility of sample adulteration. This security measure ensures that results remain transparent and dependable, protecting the integrity of the testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accredited Drug Testing boasts nationwide and local testing locations in Affton, MO, making access to services easy and stress-free. The convenience of multiple centers ensures rapid testing without the need for extensive travel.

Our widespread location network guarantees prompt testing availability, reducing wait times and facilitating effortless procedure adherence, important for both companies and individuals seeking quick results.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Affton, MO, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering to results, each step is simplified and secure, ensuring privacy and user ease at every stage of the process.

The procedure highlights simplicity and discretion, assuring participants that their information and results remain confidential, thus promoting trust and encouraging compliance with minimal hassle.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordability and swift results drive our testing services in Affton, MO. Competitively priced structures ensure all businesses, regardless of size, can access quality testing services, assuring value for their investment.

Our quick turnaround times guarantee prompt delivery of results, helping organizations to maintain operational fluidity and make timely decisions without budget constraints hindering access to quality testing.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The speed and precision of hair follicle drug tests make them stand out in Affton, MO. Their high accuracy in detecting substances ensures credible results. These tests rapidly produce outcomes, providing clarity and aiding decision-making processes efficiently.

Hair follicle drug tests promise reliability and accurate readings for substance use within a defined timeframe. Their capability to deliver fast and precise results sets them apart, proving indispensable for those seeking trustworthy screening methods.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing facilitates compliance with drug-free policies in Affton, MO. By utilizing this method, employers can ensure legal safety and uphold a secure workspace, greatly reducing potential drug-related issues.

The seamless integration of this testing within company policies emphasizes employee safety and reassures businesses of minimal legal risks, fostering a harmonious and secure environment for all.

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