Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair functions as a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken from near the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
An ideal sample for screening and confirmation is a 1.5-inch piece of around 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, which will yield 100mg of hair. For EtG, add-ons, and tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest weighing the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equal quantity of body hair can be obtained. Head hair refers only to scalp hair, while body hair refers to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test processing involves these four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial processing step of a sample in the lab's system. It involves confirming the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a quick initial check for drugs of abuse. While cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Presumptive positive samples in Screening require secondary confirmation.
In the event of a presumptive positive result at the Screening stage, additional hair is obtained from the original specimen for Extraction. This process involves extracting drugs from hair at a much lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is the most challenging method to conduct.
Any positive screening result is confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation if needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the test analyzes the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Davenport, NE
Hair testing offers superior detection capabilities compared to urine tests. With a longer detection window and a robust process, it provides greater accuracy and reliability for employers seeking a comprehensive overview of drug use.
Extended Detection Window in Davenport, NE
Hair follicle testing reveals drug use over an extended period, often up to 90 days. This long detection window equips employers with more reliable data, presenting a detailed history of an individual's substance habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Davenport, NE
With hair follicle testing, the risk of sample adulteration is substantially minimized, ensuring results that are both dependable and beyond question, thereby enhancing trust in the drug testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Davenport, NE
Our extensive network of testing centers guarantees convenient access, making the process of getting tested swift and hassle-free, no matter where you are.
Simple, Confidential Process in Davenport, NE
Our process is straightforward and ensures confidentiality at every step, from ordering the test to receiving results, addressing privacy concerns effectively while keeping the process clear and user-friendly.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Davenport, NE
We offer competitive pricing and rapid result delivery, providing exceptional value while accommodating the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Davenport, NE
Hair follicle drug tests provide unparalleled precision and efficiency. Unlike traditional methods, they are highly accurate in detecting substance use, ensuring quick and reliable results that give employers confidence in their hiring decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Davenport, NE
Implementing hair follicle testing helps employers uphold drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and fostering a safe and compliant working environment.