Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Atoka, NM

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying substance use. Hair serves as an extensive record for alcohol and drug consumption by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of nearly 3 months for drugs and alcohol. Hair is easy to gather, resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.

A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) adjacent to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the perfect quantity for both preliminary screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, we recommend 150mg of the sample. A jeweler’s scale is suggested for weighing the specimen. If head hair is absent, an equivalent volume of body hair may be used. The term "head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The lab processing of drug test results comprises four critical stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system, including ensuring proper sample sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is an initial, swift assessment for substance abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug use in the majority of cases, a positive result requires confirmation for legal acceptability. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further verification.

Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair from the original sample is extracted for further analysis. In Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug analysis.

Any positive result during Screening is validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if needed. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is thoroughly examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection range: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use for a period of up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests with shorter detection spans.
• Limited evasion risk: The integrity of a hair drug test is challenging to compromise, ensuring more reliable results.
• Chronological use data: It supplies a timeline of drug usage, rather than merely highlighting recent activity.

Limitations:

• Cannot indicate recent consumption: Drugs require about 5-7 days post-consumption to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests tend to be pricier than alternative testing methodologies.
• Result variability: Attributes like hair color and personal differences in hair development can impact drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Despite common terminology referring to "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not on the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Atoka, NM, the advantages of hair follicle over urine testing are significant. Hair testing offers unmatched detection reliability, showcasing a capacity to trace drug use for up to 90 days, opposed to the short window of urine tests. The extended period allows a better assessment of substance habits, thus offering a comprehensive overview that urine tests cannot provide.

Extended Detection Window

With an extended detection window of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Atoka, NM allows employers to gain in-depth insights into an individual's drug use patterns over time. Unlike shorter windows of other tests, this approach provides a thorough account of substance history, assisting HR departments in making informed recruitment and retention decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Atoka, NM, hair follicle tests are exceptionally tamper-resistant, notably reducing the risk of adulteration present in other testing methods. This security measure ensures results are trustworthy and verifiable, granting peace of mind to employers over the integrity of the screening process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our network of nationwide testing centers, including local Atoka, NM facilities, enhances accessibility and convenience. Employers and individuals alike can quickly and efficiently access comprehensive testing services without the hassle of extended travel or lengthy appointment waits.

Simple, Confidential Process

Our services in Atoka, NM offer a straightforward and private process for hair follicle testing. From ordering to results delivery, every step prioritizes client confidentiality, addressing worries about privacy while ensuring ease of use throughout the entire procedure.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and quick turnaround times for services in Atoka, NM. This ensures businesses receive excellent value and timely results, accommodating various budget requirements while maintaining high service standards.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug testing provides rapid and reliable results in Atoka, NM. The precision with which it identifies substance use surpasses traditional methods, offering a clear picture within a defined timeframe. This method is invaluable for employers seeking accurate assessments, ensuring decisions are based on confirmed data and reducing risks associated with flawed outcomes.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Implementing hair follicle testing in Atoka, NM ensures compliance with workplace policies, significantly lowering legal risks. Companies benefit from maintaining a drug-free environment, which fosters safety and productivity amongst employees, ultimately leading to peace of mind for employers.

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