Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying the use of substances like drugs and alcohol. Hair strands capture long-term evidence of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When clipped near the scalp, hair can offer up to roughly a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and other drugs. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is somewhat challenging, and it is convenient to ship.
A 1.5-inch section of about 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100 mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG assessments, additional panels, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150 mg of the sample is ideal. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in processing a drug test result in a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's system. This process ensures the sample is sealed and shipped correctly, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry not addressed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial quick assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to evaluate most samples for drug usage, any positive screen must undergo confirmation to be legally admissible. Any samples termed presumptively positive in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample is deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. In this phase, substances are extracted from hair at relatively lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening notably challenging to administer.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is completed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed to be positive are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mead, NE
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. With an extended detection period and reliable results, it is more effective in identifying substance use, providing a valuable tool for employers and legal bodies.
These features make hair tests a preferred choice over urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Mead, NE
Hair follicle testing provides a unique advantage with its extended detection window, able to identify drug use over a 90-day period. This allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history.
This method grants employers a wider picture of an applicant's or employee's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mead, NE
Hair follicle tests are renowned for their resistance to tampering, reducing the risk of sample adulteration. This ensures the highest reliability and unquestionable results, crucial for maintaining the integrity of the testing process.
These attributes make hair tests essential for dependable drug testing.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mead, NE
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation provides convenient access to drug testing services. With local sites available, obtaining a test is straightforward and stress-free.
Convenience is key to our service.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mead, NE
The process for hair follicle testing is both simple and confidential, ensuring privacy throughout. Ordering, undergoing a test, and obtaining results are done with ease and discretion.
This assures participants of a seamless and private experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mead, NE
Our competitive pricing structures combined with quick turnaround times offer excellent value for companies of all sizes. We aim to provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on speed or accuracy.
Affordable testing meets professional needs swiftly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Mead, NE
Hair follicle drug tests are notable for their precision and speed, ensuring rapid and accurate detection of substance use. Known for high accuracy, these tests clearly identify drug presence in the system, giving clear results promptly.
These qualities make hair testing an exceptional choice for those seeking trusted testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mead, NE
Employers seeking compliance with workplace drug-free policies find hair follicle testing invaluable. It reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety, ensuring policies are upheld effectively.
These benefits provide employers peace of mind.
