Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The increasing reliance on hair analysis has elevated its status as an effective instrument for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within its strands as it grows. By obtaining samples near the scalp, hair analysis can reveal drug and alcohol usage for an approximate period of three months. The collection process is straightforward, with a lower risk of tampering, and samples are easily transported.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, comprising around 200 hairs (akin to a #2 pencil's diameter) acquired close to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair—ideal for both screening and verification. For tests exceeding 10 panels, including EtG or other add-ons, a 150mg sample is preferred. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is advised for precise measurement. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Four primary steps constitute the lab processing of a drug test outcome: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the initial step where samples are processed into the lab's database. This phase entails confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any outstanding data entries absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening represents a preliminary analysis for substances of abuse. While Screening is an economical means to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive result requires validation to hold up in legal settings. Samples indicating potential positives in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
During the Screening phase, if a sample shows potential positivity, additional hair is extracted from the initial supply for the Extraction process. In this stage, substances are isolated from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or saliva), underscoring the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Positive results from the Screening phase undergo Confirmatory testing via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All potential positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. Each step from Accessioning to Confirmation is rigorously assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and standards accredited by ISO/IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests," these evaluations inspect the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Cherokee Pass, MO
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Cherokee Pass offers superior detection accuracy. Ideal for long-term detection of drug use, hair tests cover up to a 90-day period, whereas urine tests typically detect more recent usage. This extended detection window provides a deeper insight into an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Cherokee Pass, MO
Hair follicle testing excels in providing a longer detection window, up to 90 days in Cherokee Pass. This advantage allows employers to gain a holistic view of their employees’ or candidates’ substance use history, offering a far-reaching insight that standard urine tests simply cannot match.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Cherokee Pass, MO
Hair follicle tests are substantially less vulnerable to tampering, providing reliable and unquestionable results. This integrity ensures that results are reflective of true substance use, a critical advantage for employers and legal entities striving for accuracy and validity in drug testing outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Cherokee Pass, MO
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, including Cherokee Pass, ensures that testing services are quick and easily accessible. This convenience simplifies the process for individuals and businesses, eliminating hassles traditionally associated with drug testing procedures.
Simple, Confidential Process in Cherokee Pass, MO
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle testing is straightforward and respects privacy. We ensure a confidential experience, addressing any concerns about privacy and intrusion while retaining ease of use in Cherokee Pass.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Cherokee Pass, MO
Hair follicle testing in Cherokee Pass is competitively priced, bringing excellent value to businesses of all sizes. Combined with our quick turnaround times, we ensure that companies receive fast, reliable results without straining their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Cherokee Pass, MO
Hair follicle drug tests have become the gold standard in Cherokee Pass for their precision and speed. Recognized for their ability to detect even the smallest traces of substance use, these tests offer exceptional accuracy. Quick results mean faster decisions, helping employers maintain the integrity of their workforce without delays.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Cherokee Pass, MO
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures compliance with drug-free workplace policies, significantly reducing legal risks. Employers in Cherokee Pass enjoy peace of mind, knowing that they can maintain a safe work environment while adhering to strict regulatory standards without compromise.
