Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. The fibers of a developing hair strand capture biomarkers, providing an extensive history of alcohol and drugs. When hair is collected near the scalp, it offers a detection window of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch sample comprising approximately 200 strands (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) situated closest to the scalp offers around 100mg of hair, which is ideal for testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair alone. Body hair includes all other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result entails four principal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning starts with integrating a sample into a laboratory system. It involves ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening offers a cost-efficient way to dismiss drug consumption for most samples, any positive result must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples presumed positive in Screening need further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations as compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring why hair drug testing is among the most challenging methods to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screen result is executed by methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised under the College of American Pathologists (CAP) Hair designation along with accreditation following ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the strand of hair, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Baker, MT
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine tests, several benefits emerge. Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy due to its extended detection period of up to 90 days. This extended window provides a more complete snapshot of an individual's substance use compared to urine tests, which are limited to a shorter detection timeframe.
Reliability is another key advantage. With hair testing, the risk of results being manipulated is greatly minimized. Unlike urine tests, which can sometimes be altered or diluted conveniently, hair samples are robust and harder to tamper with, ensuring the results you receive are accurate and reliable.
Extended Detection Window in Baker, MT
The extended detection period of hair follicle testing is a significant advantage. This method provides insight into drug use for up to 90 days, unlike traditional urine tests which cover only recent use. Employers benefit from this by gaining a comprehensive understanding of a potential hire's or employee's drug history, ensuring informed decision-making.
By opting for hair follicle testing, businesses can effectively manage and uphold their drug-free policies. This robust detection window allows for a detailed view of an individual’s substance use, providing assurance and a thorough analysis.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Baker, MT
Hair follicle tests offer a significant advantage in terms of sample integrity. Unlike urine tests, which can be manipulated, hair samples are robust against tampering. This resilience ensures results are organically obtained from actual consumption, not altering from external interference.
Employers and legal authorities can rely on the authenticity of hair testing. Its resistance to adulteration assures that the outcomes reflect true substance use, providing a solid foundation for decisions on employment and legal matters.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Baker, MT
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation ensures ease of access for all clients. In Baker, MT, and beyond, scheduling a test is seamless and efficient, eliminating the hassle traditionally associated with drug testing.
Convenience is key, and our strategically positioned centers make it simple to find a location nearby. This widespread availability guarantees timely services, accommodating your testing needs effortlessly, whether locally or across state lines.
Simple, Confidential Process in Baker, MT
Navigating the drug testing process is straightforward and private. Our methods ensure confidentiality at every step, from ordering the test to receiving results. Privacy is respected, providing clients with peace of mind throughout the procedure.
The process is designed to be user-friendly. With a few essential steps, clients can seamlessly order, participate, and access their test outcomes without concerns over privacy breaches. This efficient approach simplifies drug testing for all involved parties.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Baker, MT
Cost-effectiveness and speed are hallmarks of our hair follicle testing services. Businesses benefit from competitive pricing structures that respect budget constraints while ensuring quality testing and rapid results delivery.
Quick turnaround times enhance value, providing swift access to reliable data essential for decision-making. Our commitment to affordability makes us an ideal partner for companies of varying sizes, accommodating differing needs in a cost-conscious manner.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Baker, MT
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed. These tests efficiently detect substance use, providing accurate and reliable results that are beneficial for employers, courts, and substance abuse professionals. The quick turnaround time ensures that important decisions can be made swiftly, based on dependable data.
The high level of accuracy afforded by hair follicle testing is unparalleled. By analyzing a small sample of hair, laboratories can detect various substances consumed over the past few months, presenting a clear and comprehensive picture of an individual's consumption patterns.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Baker, MT
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free policies, providing assurance for employers. This method reduces legal risk by ensuring that employees adhere to company policies, fostering a safe work environment.
Peace of mind is paramount for employers. By incorporating hair testing, businesses ensure adherence to regulations, promoting workplace safety and well-being. This proactive approach guards against legal repercussions and maintains a positive company culture.
