Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair offers an extensive history of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. Collected from near the scalp, it can indicate drug and alcohol use for up to roughly three months. Hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising about 200 strands of hair (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp supplies 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests above 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is advisable. If scalp hair is not available, an equal volume of body hair may be used. Head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The primary stages in processing a drug test in the lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into the lab's system. This step includes confirming proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial rapid inspection for recreational drugs. It is a cost-effective approach to eliminate drug use in most samples, however, a positive result in Screening needs confirmation to be valid in a legal setting. Samples with presumptively positive results in Screening require a secondary verification.
If a sample shows presumptive positive findings during Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples are washed prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is observed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Loma, MT
When comparing hair follicle testing to the more traditional urine tests, hair analysis excels in both detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing presents an extended detection window, uncovering substance use that urine tests might miss. This method offers peace of mind through its superior results, rendering it a more effective tool for comprehensive drug detection.
Extended Detection Window in Loma, MT
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its ability to reveal drug use over an extensive period, up to 90 days. This advantage provides employers in Loma, MT, with a complete understanding of an employee or applicant's substance history. It allows for a thorough review beyond the immediate past, which helps make informed decisions regarding hiring and employee monitoring.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Loma, MT
The design of hair follicle testing significantly curtails the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring reliable results. This method's resilient nature means that it is far less susceptible to tampering compared to other testing options. Therefore, in Loma, MT, individuals, and employers alike benefit from knowing their test results are trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Loma, MT
Accredited Drug Testing's expansive network of centers ensures easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services. Whether in Loma, MT, or elsewhere, our facilities provide convenience for all clients. The wide reach of our testing network means you can rely on efficient service no matter your location, aiding in quick and reliable drug testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Loma, MT
The process we offer is both straightforward and private, encompassing ordering, sample collection, and results notification. Our system is designed to respect privacy and provide ease of use for all clients in Loma, MT, ensuring comfort while meeting drug testing needs. Confidentiality and simplicity are at the forefront of our service model.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Loma, MT
Our competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times enable companies in Loma, MT, to gain an unparalleled return on investment. We promise exceptional value while delivering precise results quickly, offering an affordable solution that caters to companies of varying sizes and their specific testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Loma, MT
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and speed in detecting substance use. These tests provide high accuracy levels, making them a preferred choice in Loma, MT, due to their ability to quickly and reliably identify drug presence. With hair tests, results are obtained without long waiting periods, ensuring that employers and individuals have the information they need promptly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Loma, MT
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids in maintaining adherence to workplace drug-free policies. This practice minimizes legal risks and bolsters workplace safety. Employers in Loma, MT, gain peace of mind knowing that their workforce operates under a stringent, federally compliant drug-testing environment, safeguarding against potential liabilities.
