Hair Follicle Drug Testing - West Plains, MO

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol use. It offers a prolonged history of substance intake by trapping biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it provides up to about a 3-month span for detecting alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.

A sample that is 1.5 inches long and consists of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) fetched closest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests or screenings beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. In mentioning head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first phase in which a sample is processed into the lab’s system. This step verifies that the sample is appropriately sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any additional data entry not already accomplished by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening acts as an initial, swift assessment for substances of abuse. Screening is an economical method to often negate drug usage in most samples; however, a positive result requires confirmation to be legally valid. Presumptively positive specimens during Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.

Should a sample be presumptively positive in the Screening phase, further hair from the original specimen is used for the Extraction step. In this process, drugs are retrieved from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing poses the greatest challenge.

Confirmation of any positive results from screening is conducted via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, compared to urine tests with shorter detection spans.
• High resistance to tampering: Cheating on a hair drug test is very challenging, leading to more reliable results.
• Historical data provision: It portrays a drug use pattern over time, not only recent intake.

Limitations:

• Cannot detect very recent use: Drugs become noticeable in hair after around 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug testing tends to be pricier than other testing methods.
• Result variations: Elements like hair color and personal differences in hair growth may influence the concentration of drug metabolites.

Note: While often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing in West Plains, MO, by providing enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. With a longer detection window and resistance to tampering, hair tests are becoming a preferred choice. Their thoroughness ensures that historical drug use is identified, offering superior assurance against potential substance misuse.

Extended Detection Window

West Plains, MO employers benefit from hair follicle testing's extended detection window. The ability to trace drug use up to 90 days presents a comprehensive view of an individual’s substance history. This method enables a better assessment of employee or applicant behavior over time, ensuring informed hiring and management decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In West Plains, MO, hair follicle tests demonstrate a tamper-resistant approach to substance testing. By significantly reducing the likelihood of sample adulteration, these tests provide reliable and unquestionable results. Employers and authorities can trust the outcomes, knowing they reflect an accurate history of substance use.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenience is paramount with our drug testing services in West Plains, MO. Offering nationwide locations, including local ones, we ensure quick and hassle-free access. This expansive network allows for seamless testing experiences, catering to needs efficiently and promptly, without the inconvenience of distance.

Simple, Confidential Process

In West Plains, MO, the hair follicle testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, every step prioritizes user privacy and ease. Ensuring a straightforward experience allows participants to engage in testing without concern for their privacy or the complexities of the process.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Offering competitive pricing and fast turnaround, our hair follicle testing service in West Plains, MO, provides excellent value. Businesses of all sizes can benefit from our affordable rates and efficient service, ensuring peace of mind and effective budget management without compromising on quality or reliability.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In West Plains, MO, the precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests stand out. Renowned for their accuracy, these tests detect substance use efficiently. The testing process captures detailed information, ensuring results are trustworthy and timely. Hair testing offers unparalleled speed and accuracy, setting a new standard for drug detection.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in West Plains, MO, find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, as it aids regulatory compliance in maintaining drug-free workplaces. By mitigating legal risks and enhancing on-site safety, this testing method ensures businesses uphold their safety standards, fostering a secure, controlled environment.

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