Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encapsulates a comprehensive record of drug and alcohol intake by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When hair is obtained from close to the scalp, it offers roughly an up-to-three-month detection timeline for various substances, including alcohol. The collection process is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A sample consisting of 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in size) near the scalp provides 100mg, which is the perfect quantity for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of hair is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas 'body hair' covers all other types, such as facial and underarm hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory handling of a drug test outcome encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step where a sample is integrated into the lab’s system. This step verifies the sample’s seal and shipping protocol, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any extra data inputs not managed by an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening carries out an initial, swift assessment for substances of abuse. Despite being economical in identifying drug consumption in most samples, a positive result in Screening necessitates confirmation to be permissible in legal settings. Samples that presumed positive in Screening require further confirmation.
In case a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. During this phase, drugs are extracted at significantly lower concentrations compared to urine or oral fluid analyses, making hair drug testing the most challenging approach.
The Confirmation phase for any positive screening outcome employs methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are cleansed before Confirmation if required. The complete lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes evaluation under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is somewhat misleading, as the test assesses the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Newark, MO
Hair follicle testing offers outstanding benefits over traditional urine tests, especially in Newark, MO. Its detection accuracy and reliability allow for a broader analysis of substance use. Unlike urine testing, hair testing captures a more extensive history of drug use, supplying unparalleled insight and assurance for employers and legal entities alike.
Extended Detection Window in Newark, MO
Hair follicle testing in Newark, MO, provides a significant advantage with its extended detection window. Capable of revealing drug use over 90 days, it grants employers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history. This prolonged window is invaluable for making informed decisions about potential or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Newark, MO
In Newark, MO, hair follicle tests significantly cut down the risk of sample tampering, ensuring that results remain reliable and beyond question. The nature of hair testing makes it much harder for subjects to alter or adulterate samples, offering employers and courts peace of mind in the integrity of the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Newark, MO
With widespread testing centers, including those in Newark, MO, access to hair follicle testing is both quick and hassle-free. This nationwide reach ensures that individuals and businesses can access testing services with ease, promoting convenience and swift service delivery.
Simple, Confidential Process in Newark, MO
The hair follicle testing process in Newark, MO, is simple and confidential, addressing both privacy concerns and ease of use. The streamlined procedure for ordering, taking, and obtaining results ensures that individuals feel secure in their privacy while benefiting from a user-friendly experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Newark, MO
Offering competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, hair follicle testing in Newark, MO, delivers exceptional value for companies of all sizes. This affordability coupled with fast results provides companies with peace of mind, knowing they are receiving quality service without compromising their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Newark, MO
In Newark, MO, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their speed and precision, offering highly reliable detection of substance use. The accuracy of these tests ensures that employers can confidently assess the integrity and safety of their workforce quickly. This rapid analysis is particularly crucial for those requiring prompt and trustworthy results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Newark, MO
Hair follicle testing supports compliance with drug-free policies in Newark, MO workplaces, reducing legal risks and enhancing safety. By employing this testing method, employers can rest assured that they are upholding high standards for safety and compliance, which is critical for maintaining a secure work environment.
