Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Plains, MT

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as a potent means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extensive timeline for alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair can provide a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively challenging to tamper with, and easy to mail.

A hair sample of 1.5 inches, approximately 200 strands in volume (similar in size to a #2 pencil), taken from the scalp will yield 100mg, optimal for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).

Process Overview

In processing a drug test result, the four primary phases are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning covers the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This phase ensures the sample’s seal and shipment were executed correctly, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any additional data entry not captured by an electronic custody protocol.

Screening executes an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach for dismissing drug use in most samples, a positive result must be validated to be legally viable. Samples preliminarily positive during Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.

If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, more hair is extracted from the original sample and set for Extraction. During this step, drugs are extracted from hair at notably lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis a complex procedure.

Confirmation of any positive screen result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 benchmarks.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extensive detection timeline: Hair tests can uncover drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which cover a shorter duration.
• Hard to manipulate: Manipulating a hair drug test is arduous, offering more precise outcomes.
• Yields historical insight: It reflects a drug usage pattern over time, not solely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Cannot identify recent use: Detecting drugs in hair takes around 5-7 days post-consumption.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically incur higher costs than other methods.
• Result variability: Factors like hair tone and personal hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests," the actual test analyzes the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine analysis in Plains, MT, the superior accuracy of the former stands out. Hair tests offer reliable results with a broader detection window. These attributes make them a preferred choice for entities requiring precise substance use monitoring over longer durations.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Plains, MT, presents a significant advantage with its extended detection window, capturing drug use over a span of up to 90 days. This provides employers a comprehensive perspective on the substance habits of potential or current employees, proving invaluable in maintaining a drug-free environment.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Plains, MT, is notably tamper-resistant, substantially minimizing risks of sample adulteration. The integrity it maintains offers reliable, unquestionable results, ensuring stakeholders are confident in the outcomes provided.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Plains, MT, as well as nationwide locations, offer the convenience of extensive testing centers. Quick and easy access to testing services ensures there is minimal hassle, providing a smooth experience for all involved in the testing process.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Plains, MT, is simple and confidential, ensuring ease of use. From ordering the test to receiving the results, the procedure respects privacy, addressing concerns with a streamlined experience for clients.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Competitive pricing structures for hair follicle testing in Plains, MT, coupled with fast turnaround times, ensure excellent value. Companies of all sizes benefit from affordable pricing and swift service, aiding them in making timely, informed decisions.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The precision and rapidity of hair follicle drug tests in Plains, MT, underscore their efficiency. These tests promptly deliver conclusions, boasting a high degree of accuracy in substance detection. Their meticulousness ensures swift and correct outcomes, essential for making informed decisions in time-sensitive situations.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Using hair follicle testing aligns employers in Plains, MT, with workplace drug-free policies, ensuring compliance and reducing legal risks. This testing method enhances workplace safety, offering peace of mind and confirming adherence to mandatory guidelines.

Drug Testing Near Plains, MT

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