Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The examination of hair has evolved into an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers in its developing strands. When collected from near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to nearly three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for shipping.
A specimen measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil), collected from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the desired amount for analysis. For tests like EtG enhancements and/or panels exceeding the 10-drug count, a 150mg sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair is an option. Referencing head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Outline of the Process
The drug testing laboratory procedure encompasses four critical stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary integration of a sample into the laboratory’s system. Tasks involve confirming the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any data entry required beyond the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial swift evaluation for substance abuse. While Screening provides an economical means to dismiss the presence of drugs in most samples, any screen that returns positive necessitates confirmation for courtroom validity. Affirmatively identified samples during Screening require subsequent confirmation.
In cases of a presumptively positive Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction preparation. During this phase, hair releases drugs at lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening among the most challenging techniques.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcomes is executed with methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Merits of Hair Drug Testing:
Demerits:
Note: Though often labeled as "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strands rather than the follicles beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Berger, MO
Hair follicle testing provides superior detection and reliability, making it highly preferable over traditional urine tests. It boasts a longer detection window and offers more robust and comprehensive results while reducing the risk of tampering, presenting an unmatched method for substance monitoring.
In comparison, urine tests may not capture extended drug use history, limiting their utility for employers seeking a detailed view of substance usage.
Extended Detection Window in Berger, MO
Hair follicle testing stands out for its prolonged detection period, tracing drug use up to 90 days. Such an extended window offers employers a thorough insight into an individual's substance history, surpassing the limitations of shorter-term testing methods.
This expansive detection capability enables a comprehensive evaluation, ensuring a clearer picture of potential drug use over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Berger, MO
Hair follicle testing presents a highly secure method, significantly diminishing the chances of sample adulteration. The collection and analysis processes ensure reliable results, offering a tamper-proof option for individuals and organizations prioritizing accuracy.
This robustness positions hair testing as a preferred choice for entities demanding unquestionable and credible drug test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Berger, MO
With extensive testing facilities nationwide, accessing drug testing services in Berger, MO, becomes seamless and hassle-free. Our strategically located centers ensure quick and convenient access to testing, eliminating unnecessary travel and delays.
This ease of access allows individuals and organizations to efficiently manage their testing needs with minimal disruption.
Simple, Confidential Process in Berger, MO
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair test results is straightforward and discreet, ensuring confidentiality. This simplicity and focus on privacy meet the needs of individuals concerned with personal data security during the testing process.
By facilitating an easy-to-navigate procedure, clients can gain insights into substance use with confidence and ease.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Berger, MO
Our hair follicle drug testing services are priced competitively, ensuring excellent value for businesses of any size. Coupled with quick result turnaround times, we deliver efficiency without compromising on cost, providing a cost-effective solution to drug testing requirements.
This affordability and speed benefit companies by reducing operational delays while ensuring comprehensive substance use evaluation.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Berger, MO
Hair follicle drug tests offer rapid and precise detection, identifying substance use with remarkable accuracy and speed. This method significantly reduces waiting times for results, providing high reliability for assessing drug or alcohol presence.
The intricate analysis of hair samples enables quick and trustworthy results, making it a preferred choice in Berger, MO, for fast-paced environments seeking dependable drug testing methods.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Berger, MO
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers enforce drug-free policies, enhancing workplace safety and reducing legal liabilities. It provides peace of mind through compliance assurance, protecting organizations from potential risks associated with substance use among employees.
By fostering a safe work environment, employers can focus on operational efficiency and stability.
