Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair offers an extended history of alcohol and drug consumption by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period for alcohol and drugs of up to roughly three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion containing roughly 200 strands of hair (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, deemed the optimum sample for analysis and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or more complex panels over 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It is suggested to determine the weight using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair pertains exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result comprises four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial entry of a sample into a laboratory system. This step ensures that the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and includes any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial, swift assessment for drug abuse. While Screening is economically effective for excluding drug use in most specimens, any positive findings must be authenticated to be valid in legal contexts. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations much lower compared to methods like urine or oral fluid, underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any initial positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation conforming to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being termed "hair follicle tests", the actual test evaluates the strand of hair, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Joplin, MT
Hair testing holds a significant advantage over urine tests with its unparalleled detection accuracy. While urine tests scan for recent use, hair tests unveil a comprehensive view of an individual's history. Their superior reliability makes them a preferred choice in work and legal environments needing extensive substance use insights.
Extended Detection Window in Joplin, MT
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window of up to 90 days, making it ideal for monitoring long-term substance use. This provides organizations with a fuller picture of an individual's drug history, which is essential for informed decision-making regarding employment and adherence to policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Joplin, MT
The hair follicle test's resistance to adulteration significantly minimizes the risk of compromised results. By being highly tamper-resistant, these tests assure employers and legal professionals of the authenticity of the findings, further cementing trust in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Joplin, MT
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures Joplin residents have easy access to testing services nationwide, offering convenience and efficiency. These strategically located facilities simplify the testing process, enabling quick and hassle-free service for everyone.
Simple, Confidential Process in Joplin, MT
Our streamlined ordering and testing process ensures confidentiality and simplicity. From scheduling an appointment to receiving results, we prioritize privacy and make the entire experience straightforward, addressing any privacy concerns customers may have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Joplin, MT
With competitive pricing structures and quick turnaround times, we deliver value without compromising on quality. Joplin businesses benefit from our cost-effective solutions that ensure rapid results, regardless of company size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Joplin, MT
Hair follicle drug tests offer remarkable accuracy and swift results, ensuring that organizations in Joplin can trust in the reliability of detections. The precision of these tests reduces false positives and enhances trust in test outcomes, efficiently addressing the presence of substances in individuals undergoing examination.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Joplin, MT
Implementing hair follicle testing fosters compliance with strict workplace drug-free policies, reducing legal liabilities and promoting a safer workplace. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their efforts align with regulations, contributing to a secure and productive environment.
