Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair, hair offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug use. Hair collected near the scalp can provide detection up to about a 3-month period for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to send.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 strands of hair (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional testing, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair pertains solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The principal steps in processing a drug test result in the laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system, ensuring proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While cost-efficient for ruling out drug use on most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Samples with presumptively positive results in Screening require confirmatory analysis.
In instances of presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair from the initial sample is prepared for Extraction. Drugs are then extracted at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive results from the Screening process occurs via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing as necessary before confirmation. The overall laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and according to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the underlying follicle.
Hair follicle testing in Smithburg, NJ, outshines traditional urine tests in various aspects. While urine tests are commonly used, hair tests offer superior detection accuracy and a longer window for substance detection. The reliability of hair testing makes it a preferred choice for many organizations requiring stringent drug monitoring.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing provides Smithburg, NJ employers with an in-depth view of an individual's substance history. Unlike shorter testing methods, hair testing can detect drug use for up to 90 days, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of an applicant's or employee's habits.
Smithburg, NJ's hair follicle tests are known for minimizing sample tampering risks, ensuring highly reliable results. With the reduced potential for adulteration compared to other methods, hair testing delivers consistent and effective drug detection that stakeholders trust.
In Smithburg, NJ, the convenience of nationwide testing locations is unmatched. Our wide-reaching network ensures that individuals can access testing services quickly and easily, without hassle. This convenience provides peace of mind for those needing reliable drug testing services across the country.
The hair follicle testing process in Smithburg, NJ, is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, it addresses privacy concerns while simplifying the procedure, offering ease of use for individuals and ensuring sensitive information remains protected.
Smithburg, NJ, organizations enjoy excellent value with our affordable pricing and rapid turnaround times for hair follicle tests. The competitive pricing structures provide budget-friendly solutions without compromising quality, catering to businesses of all sizes seeking efficient drug testing services.
In Smithburg, NJ, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and rapid turnaround. This testing method excels in identifying substance use with high accuracy, giving reliable results quickly. Its efficiency makes it a top choice for fast, accurate, and dependable drug testing outcomes.
Employers in Smithburg, NJ, gain peace of mind and legal compliance through hair follicle tests. By adhering to drug-free policies with reliable testing, companies reduce legal risks and enhance workplace safety, maintaining a productive and secure environment for all employees.
