Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Wisdom, MT

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly viewed as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. This test captures a long-term drug and alcohol usage history by embedding biomarkers within the hair fiber as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair samples can offer a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and other substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and simple to send.

A hair sample of 1.5 inches in length with approximately 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's width) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirming results. For tests such as EtG add-ons or those requiring over 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weighing the specimen is advised. If no scalp hair is accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers to scalp hair exclusively, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (like facial or axillary hair).

Process Overview

The primary steps in processing a laboratory hair drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial stage where a sample is integrated into the laboratory’s system. This step includes ensuring the sample's seal and shipment integrity, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and accomplishing any required data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although it is a cost-efficient approach for excluding drug use in most specimens, any positive result from a screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in the Screening stage need further validation.

When a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is procured from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is notably challenging.

Positive screening results are validated using techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positive results undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The end-to-end laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug testing can identify drug usage up to 90 days, whereas urine tests offer shorter detection durations.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating on a hair drug test is notably difficult, enhancing result accuracy.
• Historical usage insight: It provides a timeline of drug use over time, not just immediate or recent use.

Limitations:

• Recent use undetectable: Drugs become detectable in hair after approximately 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally cost more than other testing methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and individual hair growth rates can influence the concentration of drug metabolites.

Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is often used inaccurately; the analysis focuses on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Testing is Superior to Urine Testing in Wisdom, MT

• Hair tests surpass urine tests with superior detection and accuracy.
• The reliability of hair tests offers unmatched confidence in screening processes.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Period in Wisdom, MT

• Hair follicle testing reveals drug use over an extended period of up to 90 days.
• This provides employers with a thorough view of an individual’s substance history.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Resilient to Tampering in Wisdom, MT

• Hair follicle tests significantly decrease the likelihood of sample tampering.
• The resulting data offers irrefutable and reliable outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Locations Nationwide, Including Wisdom, MT

• Our expansive network ensures easy and hassle-free access to testing facilities.
• Convenience is guaranteed via widespread testing centers nationwide.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simplified and Confidential Process in Wisdom, MT

• The process for ordering, performing, and receiving results is straightforward and confidential.
• This addresses any privacy concerns and enhances ease of use.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Economical Pricing and Quick Results in Wisdom, MT

• Our competitive pricing and expedited results guarantee value for businesses of any size.
• This balance between affordability and speed offers peace of mind.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Speedy and Precise Testing in Wisdom, MT

• Hair follicle tests are renowned for swift and accurate results, providing reliable detection of substance use.
• These tests ensure precise identification of drug use, enhancing trust in the results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Peace of Mind for Employers in Wisdom, MT

• Employing hair follicle testing helps maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
• This reduces legal exposure while boosting workplace security.

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