Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers amid the growing fibers, presenting a lengthy record of alcohol and drug use. Collected near the scalp, hair provides an approximate 3-month detection timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. It's easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair segment comprising roughly 200 strands (akin to a #2 pencil's width) nearest to the scalp offers 100mg of hair, which is a prime sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, add-ons, or any assessments exceeding 10 panels, gathering 150mg is advised. It's suggested to weigh the hair sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair can't be obtained, a similar amount of body hair might be collected. References to head hair mean only scalp hair. Body hair covers all other kinds (e.g., facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The critical stages in processing a drug test result in a lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the sample's initial integration into a lab's system. This step confirms the sample's proper sealing and delivery, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finalizes any extra data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for illicit drug use. While a cost-efficient method to initially rule out drug consumption in many samples, a positive Screen demands confirmation to be legally admissible. Any sample appearing positive during Screening needs secondary confirmation.
A presumptive positive result in Screening requires extracting more hair from the original specimen for Extraction. In Extraction, drug elements are drawn from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid testing, making hair drug screening among the most challenging techniques.
Confirmed screening positives are verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. All presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation, when applicable. The full lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle below the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bloomsdale, MO
Hair testing offers superior benefits over urine testing, with its extended detection window and resistance to manipulation. It provides a more accurate and reliable method of detecting drug use, ensuring that individuals subject to testing are assessed over a longer timeframe, which enhances the testing process's overall effectiveness.
Extended Detection Window in Bloomsdale, MO
The capability of hair follicle testing to trace drug use up to 90 days sets it apart from other methods. This extensive window offers employers a thorough perspective on an individual's substance use history, allowing for more informed decision-making based on a comprehensive overview of substance use behavior.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bloomsdale, MO
Hair follicle testing is inherently designed to minimize sample adulteration, offering test results that are trustworthy and indisputable. This method significantly curtails the chances of cheating, ensuring that the results accurately reflect substance use without the risk of sample tampering.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bloomsdale, MO
Our network of testing centers across the nation, including local availability in Bloomsdale, MO, guarantees quick and accessible drug testing services. This convenience simplifies the testing experience, making it hassle-free and efficient for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bloomsdale, MO
Our straightforward process ensures privacy from ordering to result acquisition. Understanding the importance of confidentiality, we prioritize discretion and ease of use, addressing concerns about privacy while simplifying each step of the drug testing procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bloomsdale, MO
Offering competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times, we provide exceptional value to companies of all sizes. Our cost-effective services ensure that businesses receive economical yet reliable drug testing solutions in a timely manner.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bloomsdale, MO
Hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precision and swiftness in providing results. Compared to traditional methods, they offer highly accurate detection of substance use. Their reliability is unmatched, making them a preferred choice for those seeking dependable drug testing solutions in Bloomsdale.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bloomsdale, MO
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing by maintaining adherence to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks, and improving safety. This testing method supports organizational compliance, offering assurance and fostering a secure and productive work environment.
