Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as a vital resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair testing captures a long-term record of substance exposure by locking biomarkers within the hair's fibers as it grows. If gathered near the scalp, hair can offer a detection range spanning roughly 3 months for both alcohol and other substances. Collection is straightforward, manipulation is somewhat challenging, and transportation is hassle-free.
By collecting a 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, one obtains 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is favored. We recommend weighing the specimen on a jeweler’s scale. When scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair is collected. "Head hair" refers strictly to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for analyzing a drug test result comprises four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into the laboratory's systems, ensuring the sample was sealed and shipped correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not accounted for by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening performs a preliminary quick test for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is an economical method to dismiss drug use in most samples, any positive results require confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
In the event of a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, distinguishing hair drug testing as the most complex to execute.
Any positive Screening result undergoes Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to Confirmation, presumptive positives are washed as necessary. The entire processing, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", this test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Nelson, MT.
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine tests by offering longer detection times and more precise reliability. In Nelson, MT, their ability to identify substance use history is particularly beneficial. Overall, this method is a superior choice, detecting usage patterns missed by traditional assessments.
Extended Detection Window in Nelson, MT.
In Nelson, MT, hair follicle testing offers an expansive drug detection period of up to 90 days. This extended timeline gives employers invaluable insight into an individual's substance use history. Moreover, it assists HR decisions, providing a composite overview unavailable through other tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Nelson, MT.
Hair follicle testing effectively reduces manipulation risks, ensuring trustworthy results in Nelson, MT. With its tamper-resistant nature, this method upholds the integrity of the testing process, providing definitive evidence that is difficult to compromise.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Nelson, MT.
Accessing drug testing services in Nelson, MT, is convenient, with numerous nationwide centers. These locations facilitate fast and stress-free access to testing, ensuring that individuals and organizations find processes seamless and efficient.
Simple, Confidential Process in Nelson, MT.
The procedure for completing a hair follicle test in Nelson, MT, is straightforward and respects privacy concerns. Efficient processes ensure users experience a discreet, hassle-free journey from initial order to receipt of results, keeping client information secure and confidential.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Nelson, MT.
Testing in Nelson, MT, is cost-effective with swift result delivery, catering to companies of varying sizes. The competitive pricing structure underscores the value provided, ensuring peace of mind and financial feasibility.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Nelson, MT.
Accurate and agile, hair follicle testing in Nelson, MT, delivers dependable results that identify substance use promptly. Even trace amounts are detectable with greater precision, ensuring trustworthy screenings to meet stringent requirements and providing results that stakeholders can confidently rely on.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nelson, MT.
For Nelson, MT employers, hair follicle testing fosters a drug-free workplace, aligning with compliance standards. It minimizes legal risks and improves safety by establishing a secure, compliant environment, thereby offering peace of mind for business owners.
