Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Frankford, MO

What it is, How it works

Acknowledged as a potent method, hair analysis serves as an effective means for identifying substance use. The hair strand, as it grows, encapsulates biomarkers, offering a long-term history of alcohol and drugs. When gathered close to the scalp, hair allows for a detection period that extends up to roughly three months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and conveniently transportable.

Securing a sample measuring 1.5 inches, encompassing approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels above 10, 150mg of the specimen is advised. It's suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair not be available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. When we mention head hair, we are specifically discussing scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The processing of drug test outcomes at the laboratory involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning marks the initial entry of a sample into a lab's framework. This step ensures that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any requisite data input that isn't captured by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary, expedited analysis for drugs of abuse. While cost-efficient for excluding drug usage across most specimens, a positive screen requires corroboration for legal admissibility. Samples presumed positive during Screening mandate further confirmation.

When screening suggests positivity, more hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. This step involves extracting drugs from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of conducting hair drug screening.

Positive screening outcomes undergo Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptively positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation, as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can track drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a reduced detection span.
• Challenging to deceive: It is notably hard to manipulate a hair drug test, enhancing the accuracy of the results.
• Historical consumption data: It reveals a timeline of drug consumption, not merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect immediate use: It takes an estimated 5-7 days before drugs become noticeable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than alternative drug testing approaches.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth rates can influence the concentration of drug metabolites in the hair.

Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the examination analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Frankford, MO

• Superior detection accuracy surpasses traditional urine tests.
• Long-term reliability provides peace of mind to employers.
• Enhances drug policy enforcement through comprehensive evidence.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Frankford, MO

• Hair follicle tests reveal drug use over extended periods, up to 90 days.
• Offers a thorough review of an individual's substance history.
• Beneficial for employers to monitor long-term compliance and behavior.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Frankford, MO

• Hair follicle tests reduce the likelihood of sample tampering.
• Provides trustworthy and definitive results.
• Heightens the credibility of workplace drug policies.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Frankford, MO

• Our testing centers ensure quick and easy service access.
• Offers nationwide reach with the convenience of local sites.
• Streamlines the testing process without hassle or delay.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Frankford, MO

• Ordering, taking, and receiving results is straightforward.
• Protects privacy throughout the entire testing process.
• Ensures ease of use, addressing concerns of confidentiality.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Frankford, MO

• Competitive pricing ensures excellent value for businesses of all sizes.
• Quick turnaround times provide swift peace of mind.
• Cost-effectiveness meets high-quality service expectation.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Frankford, MO

• Hair follicle drug tests deliver precise and swift outcomes.
• Unmatched accuracy in identifying substance use enhances decision-making.
• Ensures quick access to test results, eliminating prolonged waiting periods.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Frankford, MO

• Supports adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
• Minimizes potential legal issues associated with non-compliance.
• Fosters a safer and more productive work environment.

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