Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Rodarte, NM

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended history of substance usage by preserving biomarkers within the structure of the growing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal up to roughly a 3-month window of detection for various substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 strands of hair (comparable to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For tests involving EtG, additional markers, and/or assessments over 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. When we mention head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair only. Body hair pertains to all other hair types (such as facial and axillary).

Process Overview

The four key steps in the lab processing of a drug testing result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is entered into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening consists of a preliminary evaluation for drug presence. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to discount drug usage in many cases, a positive result needs verification for court admissibility. Any samples showing a presumptive positive during Screening require further confirmation.

If a sample indicates a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. In this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most complex method to execute.

Confirmation of any positive during screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as applicable. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed and complies with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can detect drug usage for up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests which have a shorter detection timeline.
• Difficult to falsify: It is particularly challenging to fabricate a hair drug test, thus enhancing result accuracy.
• Delivers historical information: It can indicate a pattern of substance usage over time, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: It requires approximately 5-7 days for substances to appear in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are generally more costly compared to alternative testing methods.
• Result variations: Elements such as hair color and person-specific hair growth differences can alter the drug metabolite levels in the hair.

Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rodarte, NM
Hair tests provide robust detection accuracy incomparable to urine tests. Their reliability in identifying substances used over extended periods positions them as a superior choice for many organizations concerned about drug use among employees or applicants.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Rodarte, NM
The capability of hair follicle testing to perceive drug use up to 90 days back allows employers a detailed insight into a person’s drug history. This extended timeline provides valuable information, aiding in making informed hiring and retention decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rodarte, NM
Hair follicle tests are significantly resistant to falsification. They offer reliable outcomes that are hard to dispute, ensuring the authenticity of the sample and maintaining the integrity of the drug testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rodarte, NM
Our widespread network of testing centers makes accessing drug testing easy and hassle-free. This convenience allows for quick service, catering to needs efficiently.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Rodarte, NM
The process for ordering and undertaking a hair test is straightforward and confidential. Privacy concerns are expertly managed, making it an easy choice for those appreciative of discretion and simplicity.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rodarte, NM
Our competitive pricing and swift service delivery offer excellent value, ensuring businesses of various sizes can access premium drug testing services promptly and economically.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rodarte, NM
Hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precision and prompt results. The ability to provide dependable data on substance use makes them highly effective. This accuracy surpasses many traditional methods, offering a dependable solution for those serious about detecting drug use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rodarte, NM
Hair follicle testing helps adhere to drug-free policies, ensuring workplace safety and lowering legal risks. Employers can maintain a secure work environment with confidence.

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