Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair. When hair is collected near the scalp, it allows for a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean specifically the scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The major steps in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially entered into the lab's system. This step involves checking that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any other data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for substances of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective method to eliminate drug usage for most samples, a positive screen must be validated to be permissible in court. Samples that show a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction stage. In this phase, drugs are taken from hair at much lower concentrations than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive result from screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The full lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," this test actually analyzes the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Capulin, NM
When comparing testing methods, hair follicle tests in Capulin, NM offer superior detection capabilities over urine tests. With unmatched accuracy and reliability, hair testing delivers precise insights, making it an excellent choice for comprehensive drug monitoring. Hair tests can detect substance use over longer periods, positioning them as a preferred option among employers.
Extended Detection Window in Capulin, NM
Hair follicle testing in Capulin, NM is renowned for its extended detection window, capable of identifying drug use over the past 90 days. This provides a holistic view of an individual’s substance usage. Employers benefit by gaining a clearer understanding of a candidate's or employee's long-term drug use patterns, enabling informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Capulin, NM
Hair follicle testing in Capulin, NM significantly reduces the risk of sample tampering. The design of this testing method ensures the integrity and reliability of results, making it nearly impossible to manipulate. This provides assurance for those seeking unquestionable results, ensuring a dependable drug testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Capulin, NM
Accessibility is key with our nationwide testing centers, including those in Capulin, NM. We provide straightforward and hassle-free access to testing services, ensuring prompt and efficient drug testing procedures. This widespread network allows for prompt availability of testing services across different regions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Capulin, NM
In Capulin, NM, our drug testing process prioritizes simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to taking the test and receiving the results, each step is designed to be user-friendly while maintaining privacy. This ensures clients experience a streamlined testing procedure without compromising on discretion or ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Capulin, NM
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times in Capulin, NM make hair follicle testing an ideal option for businesses. Providing excellent value allows companies to confidently adopt this efficient testing method without financial strain, ensuring both promptness and affordability in drug monitoring solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Capulin, NM
In Capulin, NM, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and promptness. Their design ensures remarkable accuracy, making them a leading choice for employers aiming to accurately monitor substance use. The testing method guarantees rapid processing, offering dependable insights into an individual's drug history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Capulin, NM
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Capulin, NM supports employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies. This method not only enhances safety but also mitigates potential legal risks. Companies gain peace of mind, knowing their drug testing processes align with best practices for maintaining a secure work environment.