What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is perceived as a robust method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of alcohol and illicit substance exposure by embedding biomarkers within the structure of the growing hair strand. When gathered close to the scalp, it offers a detection timeframe of nearly three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easily transportable.

A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands, roughly the width of a #2 pencil, proximate to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for initial testing and verification. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or assessments beyond ten panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen is suggested. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equal measure of body hair is usable. References to head hair specify scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing for a drug test result entails four core stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the preliminary processing of a specimen within a lab setting. This process ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and accomplishes any remaining data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody setup.

Screening serves as a preliminary rapid evaluation for substances of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use on the majority of specimens, a positive screening result requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Specimens that show presumptive positivity necessitate a secondary confirmation.

In cases where a specimen tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. This phase isolates drugs from hair at much lower concentrations than alternative techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug analysis is among the most intricate methodologies to execute.

Confirming any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Each presumptively positive specimen is cleansed prior to confirmation if required. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Extended detection period: Hair drug tests have the capacity to identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shortened detection period.
Challenging to falsify: The difficulty in falsifying a hair drug test enhances result precision.
Offers chronological data: It can trace drug use patterns across time rather than only recent use.

Limitations:

Inability to identify recent use: Detection of drugs in hair takes approximately 5-7 days post-use.
Expense: Hair drug tests typically incur higher costs than other drug evaluation techniques.
Result variability: Factors such as hair pigmentation and individual differences in hair growth may influence drug metabolite concentrations within the hair.

Note: While commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand rather than the follicle underneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Hair follicle testing in Embudo, NM, offers a superior alternative to traditional urine tests by providing more reliable detection of substance use. The ability to accurately capture drug history from the past 90 days significantly enhances its reliability, setting it apart from urine tests, which are limited in detection timeframe.

The benefits of hair testing over urine include not only extended detection but also the resilience against tampering. In comparison, hair testing provides a more thorough substance-use profile, making it an invaluable tool for employers and law enforcement.

Extended Detection Window

Embudo, NM, recognizes the power of hair follicle tests in tracking drug usage over an extensive period, up to 90 days. This extended detection window presents a fuller picture of an individual's substance history, providing employers a better evaluation of potential hires or current employees.

Such expansive insight aids in maintaining workforce integrity and adhering to rigorous workplace standards. Explore how hair follicle testing offers a more thorough overview of substance use than shorter-term testing methods.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Embudo, NM, are highly resistant to manipulation, presenting an almost tamper-proof solution for drug testing. These tests assure organizations of the authenticity of the results, reducing the scope for result alteration and rendering the outcome credible.

Employers can confidently rely on hair testing methods to provide definitive assessments, thanks to the robust nature of sample collection, which makes alteration nearly impossible, safeguarding the integrity of test outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With Accessible nationwide centers, including Embudo, NM, Accredited Drug Testing provides seamless hair follicle testing services. These extensive facilities guarantee quick and convenient service, simplifying the testing process for individuals and businesses alike.

Our strategic network ensures that no matter the location, there's always a nearby testing center, offering hassle-free access and streamlining the drug testing procedures for clients across various sectors.

Simple, Confidential Process

Embudo, NM, offers clients a straightforward and confidential hair follicle testing experience. From ordering the test to obtaining results, the process is designed for ease of use, ensuring privacy at every stage.

Our methodical approach prioritizes user friendliness and discretion, addressing privacy concerns effectively while providing clear and reliable outcomes in a secure manner.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing provides competitive pricing for hair follicle tests in Embudo, NM, ensuring clients receive excellent value and quick turnaround times. This combination of affordability and efficiency allows businesses to operate confidently and economically.

Our services are tailored to meet organizational needs, delivering quality results promptly while remaining budget-friendly, making our testing preferable for companies prioritizing both financial and operational efficiency.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Embudo, NM, hair follicle drug tests are synonymous with precision and promptness. These tests offer unmatched accuracy in identifying substance use, ensuring results that are both fast and dependable. The methodology allows for a comprehensive analysis, making it an ideal choice for employers and legal settings.

Benefiting from advanced technology, hair follicle testing delivers quick turnaround times without sacrificing accuracy. This ensures that businesses can make informed decisions swiftly, maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing in Embudo, NM, contributes significantly to employer compliance with drug-free workplace policies. Utilizing this method reduces legal liabilities and improves overall safety, ensuring peace of mind for employers committed to maintaining a high standard of workplace conduct.

This testing approach supports businesses in adhering to stringent regulation requirements, providing a safe and productive environment by addressing substance use effectively, fostering a compliant corporate culture.