Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a prolonged record of substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing strand. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal substance usage for a period of up to three months. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches in length, consisting of approximately 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, provides the ideal 100mg for analysis. For EtG, or if using over 10-panel tests, 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is absent, a similar amount of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' precisely refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four crucial steps in processing a drug test in a lab: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial entry of a sample into the lab system. This process checks for proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handles any additional data not integrated through an electronic system.
Screening serves as an initial check for drug presence. Although screening is cost-efficient and filters out drug-free samples, a positive result needs confirmation to be valid legally. Samples indicating potential drug use in Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
If Screening yields a presumptive positive, hair is retrieved from the original sample for Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at more diluted levels than methods like urine or oral fluids, making hair drug analysis particularly challenging.
Confirmation uses GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technology to verify positive results. All suspected positive samples undergo a washing process before confirmation. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sun River Valley, MT
Hair follicle testing exceeds urine tests with its superior detection accuracy. The reliability of hair tests ensures a more trustworthy outcome, making them increasingly preferred in various scenarios.
Extended Detection Window in Sun River Valley, MT
Hair follicle tests offer an extended detection window, up to 90 days. This expansive timeframe allows for a thorough assessment of an individual’s substance history, aiding employers in making informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sun River Valley, MT
Hair follicle tests significantly lower the chances of sample adulteration. The method ensures reliable results that are untainted and beyond question.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sun River Valley, MT
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation ensures that accessing testing services is a straightforward and hassle-free process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sun River Valley, MT
The procedure for ordering, conducting, and receiving hair test results is straightforward and private, ensuring discretion and ease for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sun River Valley, MT
Competitive pricing combined with quick result delivery offers businesses excellent value and assurance, catering to organizations of any size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sun River Valley, MT
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed. With unparalleled accuracy, these tests efficiently detect substance use, providing results that are both swift and dependable.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sun River Valley, MT
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps businesses adhere to drug-free policies, reducing legal risks while promoting a safe work environment.