Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments have gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extensive record of alcohol and drug intake by capturing biomarkers within the hair strand's fibers as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can deliver an estimated 3-month window of detection for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A segment of 1.5 inches from approximately 200 hair strands (around the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair may be gathered. When referencing head hair, we mean specifically scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the introductory handling of a sample into a laboratory's system. This entails checking that the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening encompasses an initial rapid evaluation for substances of abuse. Screening economically eliminates drug use in the majority of cases, yet a positive screen needs verification for legal acceptability. Any samples that test presumptively positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a specimen tests presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During Extraction, substances are withdrawn from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug screening as the most complex method to execute.
Validation of any positive screening result is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing presumptively positive undergo a washing step before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is appraised under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being termed "hair follicle tests", the evaluation itself examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hartington, NE
When comparing hair follicle tests to urine tests, the benefits of hair testing are clear. Hair analysis offers superior detection accuracy over extended periods, providing a holistic view of drug use. Employers and organizations find it more reliable, reducing false negatives and ensuring policy compliance with greater confidence.
Extended Detection Window in Hartington, NE
Hair follicle testing offers an extensive detection window, capable of identifying drug usage up to 90 days prior. This allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's substance history, far surpassing the short detection time of urine tests. It serves as a valuable tool in maintaining drug-free environments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hartington, NE
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the risk of sample adulteration. This secure testing method nearly eliminates the possibility of tampering, ensuring the credibility and integrity of drug test results. Such reliability is crucial for employers who prioritize strict policy adherence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hartington, NE
With our extensive network of testing facilities, accessing our services is fast and convenient across the country. Local and nationwide centers ensure quick, easy access to drug testing services, providing hassle-free experiences for individuals and companies alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hartington, NE
Ordering a hair follicle test is a straightforward, confidential process. We value privacy and make sure that taking the test and receiving results is simple and secure. This prioritization of ease and confidentiality addresses any privacy concerns customers may have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hartington, NE
Our competitive pricing and prompt turnaround times offer excellent value for businesses of all sizes. We ensure affordability without compromising the quality and speed of our services, providing cost-effective drug testing solutions with rapid results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hartington, NE
Hair follicle drug tests are known for their speed and precision. They boast high accuracy in detecting substance use, providing dependable results that employers and agencies can trust. This testing method ensures rapid outcomes without sacrificing reliability, offering a swift solution to substance detection needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hartington, NE
Utilizing hair follicle tests helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies effortlessly. It minimizes legal risks while enhancing safety by providing irrefutable evidence of drug use or abstinence, ensuring peace of mind and legal compliance in all operational facets.
