Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and other drugs via biomarkers held within the fibers of growing hair strands. Collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to about 3 months for both alcohol and other drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample, composed of approximately 200 strands of hair (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, which is the perfect sample size for screening and confirmation. A specimen weighing 150mg is suggested for EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for accurate specimen measurement is advisable. If scalp hair is not present, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing stage where a sample is integrated into the laboratory's system. This step involves checking that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any supplementary data entry omitted by the electronic chain of custody system.
During Screening, an initial swift analysis is performed to search for drugs of abuse. Screening offers a cost-efficient means to discount drug usage in most samples; however, a positive result requires confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptively positive samples identified during Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are drawn from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The whole laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subjected to evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standard accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly labeled as "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 Dillard, MO
In comparison to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing showcases superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing in Dillard, MO offers an advantage with its extended detection period, making it easier to identify long-term substance use. Moreover, hair tests eliminate common urine test issues, such as sample tampering, providing peace of mind to employers and relevant authorities.
Extended Detection Window in Dillard, MO
Hair follicle testing is unparalleled in its ability to detect drug use over an extended time frame, typically up to 90 days. This comprehensive detection window allows employers in Dillard, MO, to evaluate an individual’s substance history thoroughly. Employers gain a clearer understanding of an applicant or employee's habits, supporting more informed decisions related to hiring and retention.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Dillard, MO
One of the significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its fortified resistance to sample tampering. In Dillard, MO, this testing method ensures that samples remain untampered due to their collection process, thus providing accurate and reliable results. This security makes hair testing a preferred choice for entities requiring unquestionable outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Dillard, MO
With an extensive network of nationwide testing centers, including local availability in Dillard, MO, accessing hair testing services has become efficient and straightforward. These strategically positioned centers ensure that both individuals and organizations can quickly, easily, and hassle-free engage in comprehensive testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Dillard, MO
The process of ordering, engaging in, and receiving results from hair follicle tests in Dillard, MO remains simple and confidential. This ensures individuals’ privacy is respected while facilitating ease of use. The transparent procedures alleviate concerns related to personal information safety and make obtaining results an uncomplicated experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Dillard, MO
In Dillard, MO, the competitive pricing structure and swift turnaround times of hair follicle tests provide exceptional value. This ensures companies of all sizes can access high-quality testing services without straining their budgets, something that encourages broad adoption and reliable workforce monitoring.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Dillard, MO
Hair follicle drug tests provide precise and swift results, significantly reducing wait times for individuals and organizations. These tests are renowned for their high accuracy in detecting various substances, ensuring reliable outcomes in Dillard, MO. The efficiency of hair testing makes it a preferred choice for those seeking dependable information for decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Dillard, MO
Incorporating hair follicle testing into routine practices allows Dillard, MO employers to maintain compliance with drug-free workplace policies effortlessly. This method reduces legal liabilities and promotes a safer working environment, offering employers peace of mind and the reassurance of adhering to regulatory standards.
