What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. It offers a prolonged history of drug and alcohol consumption by capturing biomarkers in the hair fiber as it grows. When taken close to the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug use up to an estimated three-month period. Hair is easy to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches in length and comprising about 200 hairs (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation procedures. For EtG, additional analyses, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample's weight using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be used, a similar volume of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, only scalp hair is considered. Body hair encompasses all other hair, such as facial and axillary.

Process Summary

The laboratory process for a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into the lab's system, including ensuring the sample is properly sealed and transported, issuing a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and inputting additional data not captured by an electronic chain of custody framework.

Screening provides a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Though cost-effective for negating drug use in most samples, a positive screening requires confirmation for legal acceptability. Any screenings with presumptive positives necessitate further confirmation.

If a screening reveals a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. This step isolates drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), emphasizing the complexity of hair drug testing.

GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is employed to validate any positive screening outcomes. Presumptively positive samples undergo washing, as warranted, prior to confirmation. The complete laboratory workflow, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair categorization and adherence to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Benefits of hair drug testing:

Extended detection: Hair drug assessments can trace drug usage up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a more limited timeframe.
Hard to falsify: Manipulating results in a hair drug test is challenging, ensuring greater accuracy.
Historical insights: It captures a drug usage pattern over time, not just recent activity.

Drawbacks:

Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become discernible in hair only after approximately 5-7 days.
Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs compared to other testing techniques.
Result variations: Elements such as hair color and personal growth rates can influence drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: While termed "hair follicle tests", the test is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When it comes to understanding why hair follicle testing surpasses urine testing, Flora Vista, NM residents need to consider several factors.

The ability of hair samples to retain drug indicators offers a more comprehensive history than urine tests, which only show recent drug use.
This means employers and legal institutions get a fuller picture.

In settings where rigorous insight into an individual's substance use is necessary, hair testing undeniably takes precedence.

Extended Detection Window

One of the standout benefits of hair follicle testing in Flora Vista, NM, is its extended detection window.

Unlike other methods, hair retains drug-use evidence for up to 90 days.
This duration gives a clear view of an individual's substance history over a longer timeframe.

Employers can depend on this test for a more comprehensive understanding of potential employees or existing workforce behaviors.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Flora Vista, NM is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature.

Unlike other methods where samples can be diluted or replaced, hair testing ensures the sample's integrity remains intact.
This significantly reduces adulteration risks, offering unquestionable and reliable results that businesses can trust.

Thus, hair tests maintain a superior stance in sectors requiring stringent substance verification.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenience is key in Flora Vista, NM, with our comprehensive testing network.

Our facilities span nationwide, making tests accessible swiftly and without hassle.
Local residents and companies don't need to venture far for reliable and efficient testing services.

This widespread presence supports ease of testing and ensures that drug screening is never a cumbersome task.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process of hair follicle testing in Flora Vista, NM is both simple and confidential.

From ordering to receiving results, the steps involved prioritize user privacy and ease.
Those taking tests can be assured of discretion throughout the procedure, with results handled securely.

This ensures a stress-free experience for all parties involved, without compromising on confidentiality.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Flora Vista, NM, our hair follicle testing offers affordable pricing and fast turnaround.

Businesses benefit from competitive rates that suit various budgets.
Furthermore, the speed of processing ensures minimal waiting times without sacrificing result accuracy.

This efficient service model provides substantial value, accommodating companies of differing scales with consistency.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Flora Vista, NM, the benefits of hair follicle drug testing are evident.

The method is recognized for its quick and precise results.
While traditional tests may take longer for confirmation, hair tests streamline this process.

Thanks to its efficient detection mechanism, individuals and entities can rely on it for accurate substance use analysis, ensuring informed decisions are made in a timely manner.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Flora Vista, NM can achieve greater compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing.

By embracing this method, workplaces align with drug-free policies.
This not only enhances safety but also minimizes legal risks, ensuring a more harmonious and secure work environment.

Ultimately, businesses gain reassurance in upholding high standards and regulatory commitments.