Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments have emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands encapsulate a lengthy history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the growing fibers. When acquired near the scalp, this method offers around a 3-month timeframe for detection of alcohol and drugs. Hair sampling is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a standard pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for screening and validation. For EtG extensions or evaluations exceeding 10 drug panels, 150mg of the substance is advisable. It's suggested to measure the specimen with a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, a comparable quantity of body hair can be utilized. By "head hair," we mean hair from the scalp only, whereas "body hair" refers to all other forms (beard, underarm, etc.).
Process Overview
The core stages in the lab analysis of drug tests encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary input of a sample into the lab's framework. This step ensures proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills any remaining data fields not covered by an electronic custody tracking system.
Screening provides an initial rapid test for illicit substances. While it serves as a budget-friendly method to dismiss drug usage for most samples, conclusive validation is necessary for legal proceedings. Any samples showing preliminary positive results in Screening call for further confirmation.
Upon a sample showing a preliminary positive in Screening, an extra portion of hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are derived from hair at notably lower concentrations than other test types (e.g., urine or saliva), which renders hair testing the most intricate method to execute.
Verification of any initial positive findings is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples showing preliminary positives undergo cleaning where necessary before Confirmation. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated with compliance to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Clarification: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mehlville, MO
Hair follicle testing offers better detection accuracy and reliability compared to urine tests. Recognized for its superior detection capabilities, hair testing excels in providing comprehensive analysis and is highly valued for its thorough assessment against traditional methods.
Extended Detection Window in Mehlville, MO
Hair follicle testing offers a longer detection timeframe, observing drug use history for up to 90 days. This extended window is crucial for employers who seek a broad perspective on an individual’s substance patterns over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mehlville, MO
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chance of sample tampering. Its methodology ensures the results are reliable, delivering safe and indisputable outcomes for drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mehlville, MO
With a vast network of testing centers nationwide, accessibility to drug testing services is streamlined for ease and convenience, offering hassle-free access for individuals requiring testing services promptly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mehlville, MO
Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and maintain confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure is crafted to ensure privacy and user-friendliness, addressing personal data security and ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mehlville, MO
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times offer excellent value, catering to businesses of all sizes with efficient service delivery and ensuring cost-effectiveness along with rapid testing results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Mehlville, MO
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests are exceptional, offering highly accurate detection methods in assessing substance use. Hair tests provide swift, dependable outcomes, making them an excellent choice for those seeking rapid and reliable drug testing services.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mehlville, MO
Employing hair follicle testing allows companies to stay compliant with drug-free workplace policies, cutting legal risks and increasing safety, hence providing peace of mind for employers regarding workplace drug control.
