Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
In the realm of detecting alcohol and drug consumption, hair testing is considered a highly effective method. This technique captures a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers in the strands of hair as they grow. By collecting hair samples near the scalp, a detection window of approximately up to 90 days for alcohol and drugs can be achieved. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil), cut close to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, representing the perfect sample size for screening and confirmation. For tests like EtG or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If necessary, in the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair covers all other varieties (including facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the first step in integrating a sample into a laboratory's system. The process verifies the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data collection not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment to spot drugs of abuse. Although it cost-efficiently excludes drug use in most samples, a positive result in the Screening phase necessitates confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
When a sample is marked presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are retrieved from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
To confirm any positive screening outcomes, techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed. Prior to confirmation, all samples with presumptive positive results undergo washing as needed. The entire lab process, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is conducted in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the actual hair strand rather than the follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why does hair follicle testing surpass urine tests in Cold Springs, NV? The benefits are evident: hair testing provides superior detection accuracy and reliability over the standard urine test. With a longer detection window and less susceptibility to tampering, it stands as a more trustworthy option, ensuring comprehensive drug use history insights.
Hair follicle testing in Cold Springs, NV offers a significant advantage with its extended detection window. This method provides insight into drug use history stretching up to 90 days, granting employers a detailed view of an applicant or employee's substance habits. By utilizing hair tests, employers can make more informed decisions based on a thorough understanding of the individual's past drug use.
Cold Springs, NV boasts of the tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests. These tests are designed to substantially curb the risk of adulteration, ensuring the delivery of results that are both reliable and beyond question. By choosing this method, businesses can safeguard against inaccuracies and maintain the integrity of the testing process.
Accredited Drug Testing in Cold Springs, NV, with its nationwide reach, offers convenience through widespread testing centers. This extensive network ensures that accessing testing services is quick, effortless, and hassle-free, providing individuals with an accessible and efficient testing option across various locations.
The process for hair follicle testing in Cold Springs, NV, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. Conveniently order, take the test, and receive results while maintaining privacy. This clear and simple procedure alleviates concerns related to privacy, ensuring a comfortable experience from start to finish.
Cold Springs, NV, offers hair follicle testing with competitive pricing and a swift turnaround. By providing excellent value, businesses of all sizes can benefit from rapid results without compromising on cost-effectiveness, ensuring that they receive timely and affordable testing services for their needs.
In Cold Springs, NV, hair follicle drug testing is recognized for its swift and precise outcomes. This method offers unmatched accuracy in detecting substance use, making it a preferred choice for those demanding reliable results. The advanced technology ensures that the detection of drugs is both accurate and fast, providing peace of mind to those relying on these results.
In Cold Springs, NV, hair follicle testing supports workplace drug-free policies by ensuring compliance and reducing legal liabilities. This method enhances workplace safety, providing employers with the assurance that they are upholding the necessary standards and contributing to a secure and compliant work environment.