Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a lengthy record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. Hair collected near the scalp can reveal up to a three-month period of alcohol and drug usage. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) situated nearest the scalp will yield a 100mg sample, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for measurement is advisable. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be procured. Reference to head hair indicates scalp hair solely. Body hair encompasses all other hair forms (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test encompasses Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial intake of the sample into the lab's system, ensuring correct sealing and shipment, generating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing necessary data entry absent from an electronic custody chain system.
Screening executes a preliminary check for substance abuse. Although cost-effective, a positive Screening result needs further validation for legal credibility. A presumptive positive in Screening mandates a follow-up confirmation.
A presumptive positive necessitates further sampling from the original hair sample for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than in other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most complex technique.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS validates positive Screening outcomes in Confirmation. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is vetted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair program and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", these assessments examine the hair strand, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Tuckerton, NJ
It provides a robust method for employers seeking thorough screening solutions.
Extended Detection Window in Tuckerton, NJ
This extended period far exceeds the scope of other testing methods, thus offering a comprehensive overview.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Tuckerton, NJ
This testing methodology ensures the outcomes are both reliable and unquestionable.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Tuckerton, NJ
The widespread availability makes accessing tests seamless and efficient for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Tuckerton, NJ
This ensures peace of mind for clients, with a user-friendly approach catering to confidentiality concerns.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Tuckerton, NJ
These elements collectively provide exceptional value and convenience for enterprises throughout Tuckerton, NJ.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Tuckerton, NJ
With results delivered swiftly, these tests are not just accurate but also efficient.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Tuckerton, NJ
Employers can rest assured knowing their policies are enforced and risks minimized.