Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Lordsburg, NM

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers, offering a prolonged timeline of substance use insights. When collected adjacent to the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug usage history for up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.

A 1.5-inch length of around 200 hairs (similar to a #2 pencil in width) near the scalp provides 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, add-ons, or panels above 10, 150mg is suggested. It's advisable to measure the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent volume of body hair is acceptable. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair; "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory workflow for drug testing encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, the sample is logged into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigns a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and includes any necessary manual data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody.

Screening is a preliminary analysis for substances of abuse. Though cost-effective, any positive screenings must undergo confirmation to be court-admissible. Presumptive positive screens require follow-up confirmation.

Samples flagged as presumptive positives during Screening have additional hair drawn from the initial sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at a lower concentration than other mediums (e.g., urine, oral fluid), posing greater methodological challenges.

To confirm any positive screenings, techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed. Presumptive positives are cleansed as required before confirmation. The lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation aligns with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair tests can trace substance use for up to 90 days, outlasting the shorter span of urine tests.
• Tough to deceive: Tampering with hair tests is challenging, enhancing result reliability.
• Tracks usage history: It maps a usage timeline over a set period, unlike tests for only recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Not suitable for recent detection: Drugs typically manifest in hair after 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair tests are usually pricier compared to alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variability: Factors such as hair coloration and growth differences can impact metabolite concentration readings in hair.

Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lordsburg, NM
Hair testing offers enhanced detection accuracy and reliability over traditional urine tests. Its superior detection window and tamper-resistance make hair follicle tests more dependable, ensuring more comprehensive substance use assessment.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Lordsburg, NM
One of the standout advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection period, encompassing up to 90 days. This duration delivers a thorough view of an individual's substance use history, vital for employers' consideration of applicants or employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lordsburg, NM
Hair follicle tests significantly curtail opportunities for sample tampering. By minimizing potential adulteration risks, these tests offer reliable, unequivocal results, reinforcing their credibility over other testing methods.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lordsburg, NM
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation ensures convenient, straightforward access to hair testing services. Local facilities in Lordsburg, NM, facilitate swift, efficient testing processes, minimizing effort and time for individuals and businesses alike.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Lordsburg, NM
The procedural simplicity of our hair testing ensures a confidential, user-friendly experience. From ordering the test to receiving results, our streamlined approach guarantees privacy and ease throughout every step.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lordsburg, NM
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times provide exceptional value. These factors contribute to an affordable solution for companies, ensuring they receive prompt and reliable testing services.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lordsburg, NM
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its quick and precise results. This method swiftly identifies substance use, making it a reliable choice for employers. The test's high degree of accuracy ensures that results are trustworthy, providing assurance in detection capabilities.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lordsburg, NM
Employers gain peace of mind with hair follicle tests, which uphold compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This not only lowers legal risks but also bolsters workplace safety and integrity.

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