Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as a robust mechanism in detecting alcohol and drug usage, hair testing is acclaimed for capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. Hair collected near the scalp can retrospectively offer insights into drug and alcohol use for nearly a 90-day period. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, poses challenges for tampering, and is efficiently transported.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, approximating 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), can yield 100mg of hair, which is ideal for initial testing and verification. For extended panels beyond 10 or for EtG, an increased sample weight of 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing is suggested. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable amount from body hair can be utilized. References to head hair pertain specifically to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses other varieties (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Processing a drug test in the laboratory involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning implements the preliminary integration of a specimen into the laboratory system. This step incorporates verifying proper sealing and shipment, assigning a non-sequential LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entries absent in an electronic chain of custody framework.
During Screening, an initial assessment is carried out for substances of abuse. It serves as an economical measure to exclude drug presence in most specimens; however, any positive screening must be verified to validate its legality in court. Samples yielding a presumptive positive outcome during Screening necessitate a secondary validation.
If a specimen results in a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for further Extraction. This step isolates drugs from hair at greatly reduced concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or saliva), presenting hair drug testing as the most intricate methodology to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is employed for confirming any positive screening result. Each presumptive positive sample undergoes washing before confirmation, as deemed necessary. The entire laboratory process, spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and aligns with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly dubbed "hair follicle tests", this test actually scrutinizes the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Osborn, MO
Hair testing stands out against traditional urine tests by offering more reliable detection and superior accuracy. While urine tests can capture recent drug use, hair testing covers a prolonged duration, making them essential for comprehensive substance checks in Osborn, MO.
Extended Detection Window in Osborn, MO
One of the major advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to reveal drug usage over a 90-day period. This extended timeframe allows employers to gain a detailed view into an individual’s substance history, an invaluable resource for making informed employment decisions in Osborn, MO.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Osborn, MO
Hair follicle tests are considerably more resistant to tampering compared to other methods, providing results that are often beyond dispute. This secure method ensures that results are reliable, giving confidence to those evaluating the integrity of substance testing in Osborn, MO.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Osborn, MO
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers includes convenient locations in Osborn, MO, providing stress-free access to testing services. With Accredited Drug Testing, individuals can easily find a nearby facility to meet their testing needs swiftly and efficiently.
Simple, Confidential Process in Osborn, MO
The procedure for ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns effectively. In Osborn, MO, this simplicity ensures individuals are at ease throughout the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Osborn, MO
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times make our hair follicle testing service an attractive option for businesses of all sizes in Osborn, MO. We provide exceptional value, ensuring testing is accessible and results are delivered promptly, assuring peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Osborn, MO
Hair follicle tests provide precision and quick results for detection of substance use. Their reliability is unmatched, ensuring that every test conducted reflects an accurate history of drug intake. In Osborn, MO, these tests deliver timely insights crucial for making informed decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Osborn, MO
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports adherence to workplace drug-free policies, lessening legal risks and ensuring a safer work environment. For employers in Osborn, MO, this testing method can be instrumental in maintaining compliance and fostering peace of mind.
