Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained a reputation as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of substance use by embedding indicators within the fibers as the hair grows. When the sample is taken near the scalp, it provides up to a 90-day timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and transportation is convenient.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the girth of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both initial screening and detailed testing. For EtG, supplementary tests, or evaluations beyond 10 drug panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for measurement is suggested. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. "Head hair" strictly refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" includes other types like facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The primary laboratory stages for processing a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the entry stage where a sample is logged into a lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry absent from an electronic custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for drug abuse. While it's an economical method for negating drug usage in most samples, a court-admissible positive screen requires confirmation. Samples with preliminary positive results in Screening necessitate further validation.
For presumptive positives identified in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initially collected specimen and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid testing), explaining the complexity of hair drug testing.
Confirmation of positive findings from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Necessary washing of all presumptive positive samples is done prior to confirmation. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is supervised under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle below the scalp
When considering drug tests in Optimo, NM, hair follicle testing is superior to traditional urine tests. Its detection accuracy and reliability are unmatched, providing a clearer picture of substance use. Hair tests are not only more dependable but also offer a longer detection window, making them invaluable for thorough evaluations. Choose hair testing for its effectiveness in revealing a comprehensive substance history.
Extended Detection Window is a prominent advantage of hair follicle testing in Optimo, NM. Unlike other methods, hair tests can reveal drug use over an extensive period—up to 90 days. This feature provides employers with a broad view of an individual's substance use history, aiding in informed decision-making and policy enforcement.
In Optimo, NM, hair follicle tests are tamper-resistant, significantly minimizing risks associated with sample adulteration. This method ensures reliable, irrefutable results, making it an essential tool in environments where integrity is crucial. The procedure's design prevents loopholes, delivering trustworthy and consistent outcomes every time.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient nationwide access and services local to Optimo, NM. Our expansive network of testing centers ensures hassle-free and prompt services. The ease of access allows for quick testing, reducing disruptions and ensuring your needs are met efficiently and effectively.
The process for hair follicle testing in Optimo, NM, is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, we prioritize privacy and simplicity. Clients can rest assured that their data and identities are secure throughout the entire process, enhancing comfort and ease for all involved.
In Optimo, NM, we offer affordable pricing combined with rapid turnaround times for hair follicle drug tests. This competitive pricing structure ensures excellent value, catering to businesses of various sizes. The combination of cost-effectiveness and quick service brings peace of mind, supporting timely decision-making.
Hair follicle drug testing in Optimo, NM, guarantees fast, accurate, and dependable results. This method stands out for its precision in identifying substance use, providing unmatched reliability. Employers and individuals can trust in its efficient detection capabilities.
The thorough nature of hair testing solidifies its credibility and timeliness, ensuring you receive prompt results without compromising on quality.
For employers in Optimo, NM, using hair follicle testing aligns with compliance needs and offers peace of mind. This method strengthens adherence to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks, and enhancing safety. Employers can maintain a secure environment, assured in their testing's credibility and effectiveness.