Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a potent means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand, hair offers an extended historical record of substance use. When clipped near the scalp, hair can reveal evidence of alcohol and drug intake for an estimated 3-month period. Hair sampling is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A 1.5-inch section comprising around 200 hairs (approximate thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg, the preferred quantity for analysis and verification. For evaluations involving EtG, extra tests, and/or panels exceeding ten, a 150mg specimen is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing is advisable. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair forms (facial, axillary, and more).
Process Overview
The laboratory assessment of a drug test result consist of four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning signifies the preliminary processing of a sample within a lab's framework. This stage involves ensuring the sample is properly sealed and transported, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry not available via an electronic chain of custody process.
Screening constitutes a swift preliminary check for illicit substances. Despite being a budget-friendly approach to dismiss drug consumption in the bulk of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally valid. Samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening need subsequent confirmation.
Should a sample show presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is collected from the initial batch and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at lesser concentrations as opposed to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging technique.
Any positive screening findings undergo verification through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive specimens are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 certification.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests," this examination assesses the hair shaft rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Piltzville, MT
When comparing testing methods, hair follicle testing emerges superior over traditional urine tests due to its enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. This method not only provides a longer detection window but also offers a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, making it the preferred choice for many.
Extended Detection Window in Piltzville, MT
Hair follicle tests offer an extended detection period of up to 90 days, significantly longer than urine tests. This broader window allows employers to gain a detailed understanding of an employee's past substance use behavior, which is crucial for making informed hiring decisions and maintaining workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Piltzville, MT
One of the main advantages of hair follicle tests is their tamper-resistant nature. This testing method substantially reduces the possibility of sample adulteration, ensuring that results are reliable and uncontestable. This integrity in testing bolsters the trust of employers and authorities in the results provided.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Piltzville, MT
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide ensures easy and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. This convenience means that quick testing solutions are readily available for individuals and businesses, providing seamless access no matter the location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Piltzville, MT
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential. Addressing privacy concerns, this testing method ensures that users experience ease and reliability, enhancing the trust and comfort level of clients.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Piltzville, MT
Our hair follicle testing comes with competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, making it an attractive option for companies of all sizes. This combination of affordability and speed allows businesses to manage their testing needs efficiently while maintaining budgetary constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Piltzville, MT
Hair follicle drug assessments are characterized by their precision and rapid results. These tests deliver high accuracy in detecting substance usage, ensuring that employers and authorities receive timely and trustworthy data. This technological advancement aids in maintaining drug-free environments efficiently.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Piltzville, MT
Utilizing hair follicle tests fosters adherence to workplace drug-free policies, thereby reducing legal liabilities and enhancing workplace safety. For employers, this means not only compliance with regulations but also a safer and more productive working environment.
