Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair preserves a prolonged history of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, it can offer an up-to-3-month detection timeframe for alcohol and other substances. Hair is easy to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to dispatch.
A sample of 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 strands of hair (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or testing beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, the same amount of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial enrollment of a specimen into a lab’s system. This process includes verifying the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial quick scan for drugs of misuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug use in most specimens, a positive result in screening must be verified for court acceptance. Any samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require a secondary confirmation.
If a specimen is tentatively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly diluted concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a complex methodology to execute.
Verification of any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive specimens undergo pre-confirmation washing as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in McKittrick, MO
Hair follicle testing stands out with its advanced detection capabilities, providing a more accurate and reliable option compared to traditional urine tests. Unlike urine samples, which can be tampered with, hair testing is tamper-resistant and offers a longer detection window, making it the superior choice for employers seeking accurate results.
Extended Detection Window in McKittrick, MO
McKittrick, MO employers benefit from hair follicle testing's unparalleled extended detection period of up to 90 days. This method grants a thorough understanding of an employee's substance use history, offering a detailed view that surpasses shorter-term testing, making it ideal for comprehensive substance abuse screening.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in McKittrick, MO
Hair follicle tests in McKittrick, MO significantly reduce the risk of sample adulteration. Employers can trust in the reliability and integrity of results, as this method is nearly impossible to cheat, ensuring that the test outcomes are dependable and secure from compromise.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in McKittrick, MO
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures easy access for residents in McKittrick, MO. The convenience of numerous nationwide and local facilities simplifies the testing process, enabling quick and hassle-free testing experiences for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in McKittrick, MO
McKittrick, MO residents can experience a straightforward and confidential drug testing process. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure is designed for privacy and ease of use, catering to clients' needs while maintaining discretion and simplicity in every step.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in McKittrick, MO
Competitive pricing and quick results characterize the drug testing services in McKittrick, MO. With fast turnaround times, businesses of all sizes can ensure excellent value and reassurance, enabling them to make informed decisions promptly and cost-effectively.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in McKittrick, MO
Discover the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests in McKittrick, MO. These tests offer high accuracy in detecting substance use, providing dependable results quickly. Hair testing is recognized for its ability to deliver results promptly while maintaining accuracy, offering peace of mind for both employers and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in McKittrick, MO
Utilizing hair follicle tests helps McKittrick, MO employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies. This approach minimizes legal risks and promotes a safer, compliant work environment. Ensuring compliance offers employers peace of mind by reducing potential liabilities.
