Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a powerful method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. It retains long-term records of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair shaft. When trimmed nearby the scalp, it offers a detection window of up to 90 days for substances like alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
The ideal sample comprises a 1.5-inch segment with roughly 200 hairs (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp to yield 100mg of hair, suitable for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and those exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to have 150mg of the sample. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for measurement is suggested. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair might be collected. Head hair refers to scalp hair solely, while body hair denotes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for drug testing results involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning concerns the initial sample processing in a lab's system, including verifying proper sealing and shipping of samples, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data entry that is not covered by an electronic custody tracking system.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for potential drug misuse. Though cost-effective for ruling out drug presence in most samples, a positive screening must be validated for legal admissibility. Samples flagged as presumptive positive in Screening require further confirmation.
For presumptive positives in Screening, more hair is drawn from the original sample for Extraction, where drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug tests the most challenging to execute.
Positive screenings are confirmed utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptively positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the exam itself scrutinizes the hair shaft, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bridgeton, MO - Hair testing emerges superior to urine testing due to its longer detection window, boasting a 90-day look-back on drug use. This makes it ideal for employers aiming to maintain a drug-free environment.
The advanced nature of hair testing offers unmatched detection accuracy, significantly outperforming traditional urine tests, ensuring reliability and comprehensive insight.
Extended Detection Window in Bridgeton, MO - Hair follicle tests provide the advantage of a prolonged detection period, extending up to 90 days. This duration grants employers a thorough insight into an individual's drug history.
Such a comprehensive view assists in informed decision-making, crucial for maintaining a trustworthy workplace environment.
The extended window sets hair tests apart, offering a full-spectrum view unlike any other method.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bridgeton, MO - Hair follicle testing substantially reduces sample tampering risks. Its collection process demands close scrutiny, deterring potential adulteration and ensuring reliability.
This method guarantees trustworthy outcomes, safeguarding the integrity of results.
The meticulous nature of the process means peace of mind for those relying on these tests for crucial decisions.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bridgeton, MO - With testing centers scattered nationwide and locally in Bridgeton, access to essential testing services is streamlined and stress-free, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Our expansive network means fast and easy access to testing, eliminating logistical hurdles, whether you're in Missouri or elsewhere.
Count on our widespread presence for quick service.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bridgeton, MO - Our approach to testing is designed to be straightforward and private, assuring users of confidentiality and ease throughout the process.
From ordering to result retrieval, the process is seamless, addressing privacy concerns and simplifying the entire experience.
Confidentiality remains a top priority, reassuring users of their privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bridgeton, MO - We provide competitive pricing structures along with swift result turnaround, ensuring exceptional value for businesses regardless of size.
Our commitment to affordability goes hand in hand with prompt service, delivering results swiftly without breaking the bank.
Businesses enjoy outstanding value and peace of mind with our efficient services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bridgeton, MO - Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and speed. They boast exceptional accuracy in identifying substance use over extended timelines, offering confidence in test results.
Thanks to advanced technology, these tests quickly yield results, assuring individuals and organizations of their dependability.
Rapid processing meets high standards of accuracy, ensuring meaningful insights into substance history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bridgeton, MO - By adopting hair follicle testing, employers can secure compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This approach minimizes legal risks and enhances overall workplace safety.
Employers gain peace of mind by ensuring comprehensive and accurate assessments, contributing to a safe and compliant organizational culture.
Such measures fortify the commitment to a secure workspace.