Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a significant method for spotting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands provide an extensive timeline of alcohol and drug use by trapping biomarkers within the growing hair fibers. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer up to an estimated 3-month window for detection of alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, notoriously resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising around 200 strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) at the nearest point to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-on tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to verify specimen weight. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. By head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively, while body hair denotes all other hair types (including facial, axillary, etc).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing for drug test results consists of four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system, which involves verifying the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and managing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary evaluation for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-effective approach for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation for legal validity. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening mandate further confirmation.
A sample deemed presumptively positive during Screening necessitates further analysis, pulling more hair from the primary specimen to prepare for Extraction. During this stage, drugs undergo extraction from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or saliva), making hair drug analysis a more challenging procedure.
The Confirmation of any positive screening indication is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Necessary washing of all presumptive positive samples is performed before confirmation. Every stage from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes meticulous review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designated standards and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards of accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly described as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually analyze the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Stover, MO
Hair testing provides a longer detection window and yields greater accuracy than traditional urine tests. Unlike urine tests, hair analyses can unveil drug use history over 90 days, offering a more reliable and comprehensive solution for employers enforcing drug-free policies.
Extended Detection Window in Stover, MO
The significant advantage of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drugs over a lengthy timeframe, usually up to 90 days. Employers in Stover, MO, benefit from this extensive detection window, gaining insights into the applicant's or employee's historical substance use.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Stover, MO
Hair follicle tests minimize the risk of tampering, offering results that are both trustworthy and conclusive. This method nearly eliminates adulteration threats, granting employers the assurance they need in their testing practices.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Stover, MO
With centers spread nationwide, accessing our testing services is quick and simple. Local availability in Stover, MO, enhances convenience, offering efficient and hassle-free testing options for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in Stover, MO
Our process is straightforward and maintains confidentiality from ordering through to results receipt. Concerns about privacy are well-managed, ensuring an effortless and secure experience for all users.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Stover, MO
We offer competitive pricing and expedited turnaround times to deliver value and reassurance to companies across varying scales, ensuring that quality testing remains accessible and timely for all.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Stover, MO
Hair follicle testing in Stover, MO, is celebrated for its precision and rapid results. This testing method offers outstanding accuracy in identifying drug use, ensuring quick and dependable outcomes that assist in maintaining workplace integrity and safety.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Stover, MO
Employers utilizing hair follicle testing ensure adherence to workplace drug-free standards, mitigating legal exposure and fostering a culture of safety and well-being within the workplace environment.
