Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended chronicle of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair grants a detection span of up to roughly three months for substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches comprised of around 200 hair strands (akin to the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp provides 100mg, an optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. When conducting EtG, add-ons, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be utilized. "Head hair" pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other varieties of hair (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
The laboratory process for a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial processing of a sample into the lab's system, including verifying proper sealing and shipment, allotting a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and entering any additional data absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening conducts an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. Although cost-effective for ruling out drug usage in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate secondary verification.
For samples appearing positive during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluids), constituting hair drug screening as a challenging methodology.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, any samples presumed positive are cleansed as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specifications and ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Challenges:
Caution: Though often named "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Butler, MO
Hair testing outperforms urine testing by offering superior detection capabilities. It provides reliable results and a longer detection window, ensuring that employers gain a clearer insight.
Extended Detection Window in Butler, MO
Hair follicle testing shines with its extended detection window. Capable of identifying drug use up to 90 days prior, it offers a thorough view of an individual's drug history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Butler, MO
Hair follicle testing reduces the probability of sample tampering significantly. This makes it an incredibly reliable method for obtaining accurate results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Butler, MO
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures you can easily and conveniently access testing services wherever you are.
Simple, Confidential Process in Butler, MO
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and discreet. We prioritize privacy, ensuring a seamless testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Butler, MO
Our competitive pricing paired with swift turnaround times offers excellent value while providing reassurance that your needs are met promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Butler, MO
Our commitment to speed and precision is exemplified through hair follicle testing. Known for their high accuracy in detecting substance use, these tests provide a thorough analysis, swiftly giving you the results you need.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Butler, MO
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports employers in compliance with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal worries while ensuring safety.
