Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It provides an extended timeline of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of growing hair strands. When hair is collected from near the scalp, it offers an approximate 3-month period of detection for alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is uncomplicated, somewhat resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair—ideal for both initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For tests involving EtG, additional add-ons, and those exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is recommended to use a jeweler's scale for weighing the specimen. In cases where scalp hair is not available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically pertain to scalp hair; whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test in a laboratory involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample undergoes initial processing within the laboratory's system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any manual data entry tasks not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a preliminary evaluation for substances of abuse. Although cost-efficient for eliminating drug usage in most samples, a positive result in Screening must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Samples that are presumptively positive during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
When a specimen shows a presumptively positive result at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this stage, substances are isolated from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive screening results is achieved using methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo washing before confirmation, if necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Comertown, MT, hair follicle testing is increasingly favored over urine testing due to its superior benefits. Longer detection periods allow a broader window for substance identification, unlike urine tests which are limited to a shorter timeframe. The undeniable accuracy and reliability of hair follicle tests provide more consistent results compared to traditional urine testing methods.
Hair follicle testing in Comertown, MT, stands out for its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This longevity allows employers to thoroughly understand an individual's substance use history. This comprehensive overview ensures that businesses make informed decisions, reducing the risk of workplace issues related to drug abuse.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Comertown, MT, substantially reduces the risk of sample manipulation. This testing method provides trustworthy and undisputed results, ensuring that businesses and organizations can rely on its accuracy. Users benefit from the confidence that their results are genuine and valid.
Offering convenient, nationwide testing locations, including those in Comertown, MT, Accredited Drug Testing provides easy access for everyone. The network of centers ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing individuals and companies to perform necessary tests without delays, providing both local and national coverage.
The process of hair follicle testing in Comertown, MT, is simple, confidential, and user-friendly. Order, take, and receive results with ease, addressing privacy concerns effectively. Our streamlined approach guarantees that users can trust the confidentiality and efficiency of the testing procedure, ensuring peace of mind throughout.
Accredited Drug Testing in Comertown, MT, offers affordable pricing and quick turnaround for hair follicle tests. Competitive pricing structures ensure that businesses of all sizes can benefit from these comprehensive services without breaking the bank, while the fast processing times ensure timely results for decision-makers.
Hair follicle testing in Comertown, MT, offers fast, accurate, and reliable results. The precision of this method in identifying substance use is unparalleled. Speed and accuracy are pivotal, ensuring no substance goes undetected. The efficiency of hair testing enhances its credibility, making it a preferred choice for timely and dependable results.
In Comertown, MT, hair follicle testing aligns with compliance and provides peace of mind for employers. Adhering to drug-free policies is crucial for minimizing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. Employers are assured of maintaining standards and avoiding potential issues, fostering a healthy work environment.