Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Costilla, NM

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has emerged as a potent method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By locking biomarkers within the strands of growing hair, it provides an extended historical record of such substances. When hair is taken close to the scalp, it can offer a detection window of up to roughly three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and simple to transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg, which is the preferred quantity for both screening and confirmation. For tests like EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. In references to head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test incorporates four crucial steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning consists of the initial entry of a sample into a laboratory's system. It includes verifying proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides a rapid initial check for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result must be substantiated for court admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive during Screening will mandate secondary confirmation.

For samples testing presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening methodologies.

Confirmation relies on techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are cleansed as needed before Confirmation. The laboratory's process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the standards of ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests detect drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests with shorter windows.
• Hard to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely difficult, enhancing result accuracy.
• Historical insight: It can reveal a drug use pattern over time, rather than merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Cannot identify recent use: Drugs take around 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are typically pricier than alternative testing methods.
• Variability in outcomes: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Though sometimes called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself and not the sub-scalp hair follicle.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Costilla, NM, shines when compared to traditional urine tests. Offering superior detection capabilities, hair tests can reveal drug or alcohol use over a much longer period, providing a broader view. For employers favoring unwavering accuracy and dependability, this method emerges as the optimal choice.

Extended Detection Window

The extended detection window of hair follicle tests in Costilla, NM, significantly surpasses standard tests. With the ability to trace substance use up to 90 days, employers can gain an all-encompassing understanding of an individual's historical drug use. This prolonged analysis supports informed employment decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Costilla, NM, hair follicle testing minimizes sample tampering risk. This method ensures samples remain unaltered, providing results that are both reliable and authoritative. Such testing techniques greatly diminish the likelihood of manipulation, fortifying the integrity of test outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With nationwide testing centers, including Costilla, NM, obtaining a hair follicle test is straightforward. Our expansive network guarantees swift, hassle-free access to services, ensuring every client receives prompt evaluations irrespective of their location across the country.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of utilizing hair follicle testing services in Costilla, NM, is streamlined and discreet. Our systems prioritize privacy and simplicity, making ordering, conducting, and retrieving test results a private yet efficient experience for all clients concerned about personal privacy.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing in Costilla, NM, ensuring affordability without sacrificing speed. Our fast turnaround times combined with cost-effective solutions provide unmatched value for diverse businesses, allowing them peace of mind without financial strain.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Costilla, NM, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their swift and precise results. These tests not only match but often surpass the accuracy of alternative testing methods. Detection of substance use is enhanced due to the meticulous technique, positioning hair follicle tests as a preferred choice for accuracy.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Adopting hair follicle testing in Costilla, NM, empowers employers with peace of mind by assuring adherence to workplace drug policies. This method decreases legal liabilities, fosters a safer environment, and demonstrates a proactive approach to employee well-being.

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