Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers during growth, offering a comprehensive history of drug and alcohol intake. When sampled near the scalp, hair can indicate drug and alcohol usage for up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and effortless to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hairs (about the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the head provides 100mg of hair, which is the preferred quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or assessments exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It’s suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair is unavailable, a corresponding amount of body hair is suitable. The term "head hair" specifically means scalp hair, whereas "body hair" comprises all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in lab processing of drug test outcomes are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the entry of a sample into a lab’s system. This covers verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary review for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an efficient cost-saving method for most samples to exclude drug use, a positive result must be confirmed for court acceptance. Samples presumptively positive in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening phase, extra hair from the original sample is extracted for the Extraction phase. Drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing one of the most challenging methods to execute.
Verification of any positive screening is done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is monitored under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often dubbed "hair follicle tests," the test itself evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Moorefield, NE
Hair follicle testing is a more advanced method compared to urine testing when identifying substance use. Its superior detection accuracy and longer detection window make it especially reliable. While urine tests reflect recent drug use, hair follicle tests offer a comprehensive history, making them invaluable for situations requiring a detailed overview of drug consumption.
Extended Detection Window in Moorefield, NE
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing, reaching up to 90 days, offers a detailed analysis of an individual's substance use over time. This allows employers in Moorefield, NE, to gain substantial insights into an employee's or applicant's drug history, providing an extensive perspective on their reliability and decision-making over a significant period.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Moorefield, NE
Hair follicle testing is a robust, tamper-resistant method, significantly minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. This test's design ensures that results are reliable and undeniable, providing a trustworthy basis for assessments. In Moorefield, NE, this reliability is crucial for organizations seeking conclusive drug testing results without the possibility of manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Moorefield, NE
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers offers convenience in Moorefield, NE. These easily accessible locations assure that testing is quick and effortless, making the process hassle-free. This availability ensures individuals and businesses can efficiently conduct required testing without the inconvenience of distant or limited options.
Simple, Confidential Process in Moorefield, NE
The procedure for hair follicle testing is simple and confidential in Moorefield, NE. From ordering the test to receiving the results, our process ensures privacy and ease, addressing any concerns about confidentiality and user-friendliness. This makes hair testing not only a reliable choice but also a straightforward one to navigate.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Moorefield, NE
Our competitive pricing and prompt turnaround times in Moorefield, NE, are designed to offer great value, ensuring businesses of all sizes can benefit. By balancing cost-effectiveness with quick result delivery, we provide a valuable service that meets the financial and operational needs of diverse organizations looking for reliable drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Moorefield, NE
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their quick and precise results. The methodology ensures highly accurate identification of substances, allowing for confident decision-making. This accuracy and speed make these tests a preferred choice in Moorefield, NE, whether for employment screenings or legal reasons, assuring timely and trustworthy outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Moorefield, NE
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies in Moorefield, NE. This testing method decreases legal risks and enhances workplace safety by offering definitive proof of compliance, thus delivering peace of mind to employers and maintaining a secure and safe work environment for all employees.
