What it is, How it works

Using hair assessment is recognized as an efficient method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. When sourced near the scalp, hair can present a detection period extending up to roughly 90 days for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches of about 200 hair strands (roughly equivalent to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and validation. For EtG, supplementary testing, and assays beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair can't be obtained, collecting an equivalent quantity of body hair is permissible. When mentioning head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (e.g., facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The four primary phases in the laboratory evaluation of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning entails the initial assimilation of a specimen into the lab’s system. This process verifies that the sample was appropriately sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any extra data input not supported by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective approach to eliminate drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is required for legal admissibility. Any samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening must undergo further confirmation.

When a sample is deemed presumptively positive in the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration than in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to conduct.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

Lengthy detection period: Hair drug tests are capable of identifying drug usage for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which offer a shorter detection period.
Resistance to manipulation: Cheating a hair drug test is exceedingly challenging, enhancing the accuracy of results.
Provision of historical data: It can present a pattern of drug consumption over a duration, not merely recent usage.

Limitations:

Inability to detect recent consumption: It requires about 5-7 days for drugs to become traceable in hair.
Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs compared to other drug testing techniques.
Variability in outcomes: Elements such as hair color and individual disparities in hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentration in the hair.

Note: Frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in La Puente, NM

Hair testing offers a superior accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests due to its comprehensive detection capabilities.
Unlike urine tests, hair tests provide a more extended detection period which can trace substance use long after the initial consumption.
The minimal chances of tampering with hair samples make them a more trustworthy option over standard urine testing procedures.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in La Puente, NM

With a hair follicle test, employers gain insight into an individual's substance use over an extended timeline, potentially up to 90 days
This expansive detection window ensures a clearer picture of long-term substance habits, beneficial for ongoing workplace assessments.
Providing coverage for such extensive periods means many substances won't escape notice as easily as with shorter testing methods.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in La Puente, NM

Hair follicle sampling significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, offering infallible results each time.
The inherent resistance to tampering ensures the testing process remains secure, maintaining its credibility and trustworthiness.
In settings where integrity is paramount, hair testing shines with its low manipulation potential compared to other methods.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in La Puente, NM

Our extensive network of testing centers makes it easy for individuals to find quick and accessible testing locations nationwide.
Local facilities in La Puente ensure minimal travel and hassle, streamlining the testing process for individuals and businesses alike.
This broad geographical coverage provides flexible options, catering to both local and boundary-spanning needs with ease.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in La Puente, NM

Our streamlined process is designed for ease from ordering to results delivery, prioritizing customer convenience.
We guarantee confidentiality at every stage, ensuring privacy for all involved throughout the testing process.
This simplicity enhances overall user experience, addressing both primary needs and additional concerns with unparalleled care.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in La Puente, NM

Our competitive pricing ensures excellent value, making quality drug testing accessible for companies of all sizes.
Fast turnaround times mean results are delivered promptly, maintaining efficiency for time-sensitive contexts.
Providing cost-effective testing solutions, we aim to meet the budgetary and operational demands of various organizations.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in La Puente, NM

The efficiency of hair follicle drug tests lies in their ability to quickly deliver precise results, ensuring timely interventions or decisions.
Hair follicle testing stands out for its high accuracy, as it can detect even small quantities of substances.
The reliability of test outcomes plays a crucial role in various settings, offering reassurance to both employers and individuals involved.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in La Puente, NM

Employers adhering to drug-free policies find reassurance through the compliant, reliable nature of hair follicle testing.
Reducing legal risks, these tests enhance workplace safety and focus, while also safeguarding organizational interests.
With comprehensive testing, employers can ensure compliance with minimal effort, protecting their workforce effectively.