Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The detection of drug and alcohol use has been significantly enhanced through hair testing. Hair serves as a reliable source for tracing the historical usage of alcohol and drugs, capturing biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When strands are collected near the scalp, the detection period for alcohol and other substances extends to almost three months. The collection of hair is uncomplicated, with minimal risk of tampering, and is easily shipped.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil size) proximate to the scalp yields 100mg, perfect for necessary screenings and confirmatory tests. For EtG, additional checks, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precision in weight. In cases where scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair is acceptable. By 'head hair', we exclusively mean scalp hair. 'Body hair' pertains to all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result comprises four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the primary receipt and processing of a sample within a laboratory's workflow. This step includes verifying the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data inputs absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
During Screening, an initial assessment for drug presence is carried out. Screening serves as a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage in most cases, though a positive screening requires confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples that initially test positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
In case of a positive result during Screening, additional hair is acquired from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drug extraction from hair occurs at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive results from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples showing positive screening results undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is thoroughly reviewed following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine testing in Maitland, MO, several benefits become apparent. Hair tests boast a higher detection accuracy, with the ability to identify drug use over a longer period. This offers a more comprehensive assessment of substance use, making hair testing a superior choice for those seeking dependable results in drug screening processes.
Hair follicle testing in Maitland, MO, provides an extended detection window, capable of identifying drug use for up to 90 days. This longevity offers employers a thorough understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history, allowing for more informed hiring and management decisions. The extended timeframe ensures that even sporadic drug use does not go unnoticed.
In Maitland, MO, the use of hair follicle tests significantly diminishes the risk of sample adulteration. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests are notably resistant to tampering, providing results that are both reliable and unquestionable. This integrity makes hair follicle tests an invaluable tool in drug screening, ensuring the authenticity of the results.
The availability of convenient nationwide testing centers, including local options in Maitland, MO, underscores the accessibility of our services. We provide quick, easy, and hassle-free access to drug testing, meeting the needs of individuals and businesses across different locations with efficiency and ease.
The hair follicle testing process in Maitland, MO is straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to taking it and receiving results, the procedure is designed to prioritize privacy and ease of use. Clients can rest assured knowing their information remains secure, making the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
In Maitland, MO, we offer competitive pricing structures for hair follicle testing, combined with fast turnaround times. Our services provide excellent value for companies of all sizes, ensuring affordability while delivering peace of mind. Clients benefit from quick and reliable testing without compromising on quality or cost-effectiveness.
The hair follicle drug tests conducted in Maitland, MO, stand out due to their precision and promptness. This testing method provides highly accurate detection of substance use, offering a reliable solution for employers and individuals seeking trustworthy results. The process is streamlined, ensuring quick turnaround times while maintaining high standards of accuracy and reliability.
Adopting hair follicle testing in Maitland, MO helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal liabilities while enhancing safety. This testing method ensures adherence to regulations, offering peace of mind and a more secure working environment. Reliable detection of drug use supports employers in maintaining a healthy workforce.
