Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a long-term repository for alcohol and other substances by encasing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair samples can reveal drug and alcohol intake over a period of up to about 90 days. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and uncomplicated to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches from around 200 strands — roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil — closest to the scalp yields 100mg, the preferred quantity for initial screening and subsequent confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or evaluations beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we refer exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair denotes any other type of hair (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing laboratory process comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is introduced into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any extra data entry that isn't submitted via an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary check for substance misuse. While this step is efficient in ruling out drug use for most samples, any positive findings must be verified to be permissible in legal settings. Samples that are initially flagged in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample yield a positive result during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. Here, the drugs are isolated from the hair, presenting at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), illustrating why hair drug testing is highly complex.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods confirm any positive screening results. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) standards and accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", these do not examine the follicle beneath the scalp, but rather the hair strand itself.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sargent, NE
Hair testing provides a longer detection window compared to urine tests, revealing substance use more reliably. The enhanced accuracy ensures that employers receive clearer insights into drug use, while its non-invasive nature protects the integrity of the sample, making it far superior to traditional methods.
Extended Detection Window in Sargent, NE
Employers benefit greatly from hair follicle testing due to its ability to reveal drug use over a span of up to 90 days. This extended timeframe offers a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use in the Sargent area, aiding in more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sargent, NE
The robust nature of hair follicle testing significantly reduces the chances of adulteration or falsified samples. This ensures that results are not only reliable but also indisputable, giving confidence to those requiring accurate drug testing in Sargent.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sargent, NE
With an extensive network of testing centers nationwide and in Sargent, accessing reliable drug testing services becomes swift and efficient. This widespread availability ensures that individuals and businesses can experience hassle-free and timely testing at their convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sargent, NE
Our process for ordering and receiving hair follicle drug test results is both straightforward and confidential. This simplicity ensures that clients in Sargent can easily manage their testing needs while safeguarding privacy every step of the way.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sargent, NE
Offering competitive pricing alongside rapid turnaround times, our services in Sargent provide exceptional value. This efficient approach guarantees that businesses of all sizes can benefit from reliable drug testing without excessive costs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sargent, NE
Hair follicle tests offer exceptional precision, ensuring that substance use is detected accurately. The speed of this method means quick results without sacrificing reliability. This makes them an ideal choice for employers in Sargent seeking comprehensive and dependable insights into an individual's drug use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sargent, NE
Utilizing hair follicle testing ensures that workplace drug-free policies are adhered to meticulously. This approach mitigates legal risks and enhances safety, providing peace of mind for Sargent employers committed to maintaining a secure work environment.