Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained acceptance as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair strands provide a prolonged substance history by embedding biomarkers within the fiber structure of growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer an approximately 3-month detection period for drugs and alcohol. Hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample of hair measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 strands (approximating the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp can yield 100mg, which is the optimal sample for assessments and confirmations. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar amount of body hair can be gathered. In reference to head hair, we mean solely scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in lab processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial inclusion of a specimen into a lab's system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a preliminary rapid appraisal for drugs. Screening is cost-efficient for excluding drugs in most samples; however, a positive screening must be confirmed for court acceptance. Samples with presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample is preliminarily positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower levels than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the complex methodologies.
Verification of any positive screen is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as needed. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is examined under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criterion.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", the testing focuses on the hair shaft, not the follicle under the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Pueblo Pintado, NM
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing stands out for its precision and reliability. Hair tests offer an improved detection window, catching a broader spectrum of substances over a longer time. This advantage makes them a preferred choice for enforcing stringent drug-free policies and maintaining workplace integrity.
Extended Detection Window in Pueblo Pintado, NM
The benefit of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe provides employers with a comprehensive view of an individual’s substance use history, rather than just recent use, offering a broader perspective for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Pueblo Pintado, NM
Hair follicle tests reduce the chance of sample tampering significantly. This method provides results that are both reliable and verifiable, as the test is conducted under strict observation, ensuring no chances for manipulation, thus maintaining the integrity of the process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Pueblo Pintado, NM
With our numerous testing centers across the nation, accessing drug testing services is more convenient than ever. Our local test centers in Pueblo Pintado, NM, ensure hassle-free access, making the process quick and straightforward for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Pueblo Pintado, NM
The process for hair follicle testing is both simple and confidential, ensuring that privacy concerns are effectively addressed. From ordering a test to receiving results, every step is designed to be user-friendly, maintaining discretion for all participants involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Pueblo Pintado, NM
We offer competitive pricing structures along with speedy turnaround times, making our services cost-effective and valuable for businesses of any size. This affordability, combined with fast results, provides exceptional peace of mind for employers seeking efficient drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Pueblo Pintado, NM
With hair follicle drug testing, the efficiency, and precision of the results are unparalleled. This method is renowned for its rapid turnaround time and high accuracy levels, making it an ideal option for those seeking dependable substance use detection. The meticulous nature of the test ensures reliable outcomes every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Pueblo Pintado, NM
Implementing hair follicle testing can help ensure compliance with workplace policies. This proactive approach aids in reducing potential legal risks while promoting a safe and productive workplace environment. Employers can rest assured knowing they are fostering a responsible workforce.