Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Salem, NM

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective measure for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended record of substance use by incorporating biomarkers within the strands as they grow. Gathering hair close to the scalp allows for approximately a 3-month detection timeframe for both alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and easily transportable.

A sample consisting of 1.5 inches of around 200 hair strands (similar in width to a #2 pencil) located closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for analysis. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is suggested. It's advisable to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unobtainable, an equivalent volume of body hair is acceptable. "Head hair" refers specifically to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (including facial, underarm, etc.).

Process Overview

The key stages of processing a drug test in a lab consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first step and involves integrating a sample into a lab system. This process checks that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data inputs not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides an initial, rapid assessment for detecting drugs. Although Screening is a cost-efficient means to exclude drug use in the majority of cases, a confirmed result is necessary for court admissibility. Samples that show presumptive positivity during Screening require further confirmation.

In cases where a sample is presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for further Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair in lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a particularly challenging technique.

Confirmation of any positive findings from Screening is handled using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. Before confirmation, all samples testing presumptive positive are washed as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests identify drug use spanning up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which offer a shorter detection period.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is exceptionally difficult, yielding more reliable results.
• Historical insight: Offers a timeline of drug use, not merely recent intake.

Limitations:

• Incapable of detecting recent usage: Drugs become visible in hair after about 5-7 days.
• Expense: Hair drug testing tends to cost more than alternative testing methods.
• Variability in outcomes: Drug metabolite concentrations can be influenced by hair color or individual growth rates.

Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

The advantages of hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests in Salem, NM are significant. Hair testing offers a broader detection window, capturing long-term substance use history. This makes it a crucial component in comprehensive drug screening programs.

While urine tests are useful for detecting recent use, hair follicle tests provide a more accurate picture of habitual use. The added reliability stems from hair tests being less likely to be altered or influenced by external factors, ensuring consistent accuracy in drug detection.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Salem, NM offers an expansive detection window of up to 90 days. This extended period allows employers to ascertain an individual's long-term drug use patterns, providing a more comprehensive assessment than standard tests.

Understanding the full scope of an applicant or employee’s substance history is crucial for maintaining workplace safety. The ability of hair follicle tests to reveal a detailed history reinforces their role as a key tool for informed decision-making in hiring and employment practices.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Salem, NM, the hair follicle testing method minimizes the risk of sample tampering, ensuring reliable outcomes. The integrity of drug test results is vital, and hair tests naturally resist adulteration, a common issue with other testing methods.

The collection process for hair testing is straightforward and observed, reducing opportunities for manipulation. This aspect makes hair follicle tests a trustworthy option for employers who require absolute accuracy and dependability in drug testing results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

The convenience of nationwide testing locations includes Salem, NM ensuring easy access to hair follicle drug testing services. Our widespread presence simplifies the testing process, offering locations that are both reachable and efficient for individuals and companies.

Locals in Salem can benefit from these strategically placed centers, allowing quick and hassle-free testing experiences. This flexibility underscores the importance of having widespread access to reliable drug testing services nationwide.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Salem, NM, the process of ordering and completing hair follicle drug tests is both simple and confidential. Understanding the privacy concerns surrounding drug testing, Accredited Drug Testing ensures a discreet and straightforward approach from start to finish.

Our services are designed to prioritize confidentiality and ease of use, ensuring everyone involved can trust the process. From scheduling a test to receiving results, participants can count on a smooth, secure experience that respects privacy.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Accredited Drug Testing in Salem, NM offers hair follicle drug tests with competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Our focus on affordability ensures that businesses of all sizes can access reliable drug testing without financial strain.

The combination of reasonable prices and quick result delivery provides exceptional value. Whether for employment screening or compliance needs, our services offer dependable solutions that support workplace safety in a cost-effective manner.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Salem, NM, hair follicle drug tests are recognized for their speed and precision. The process is designed to be quick yet thorough, ensuring results are not only fast but also accurate. Hair follicle tests are adept at identifying a wide range of substances, offering unparalleled reliability compared to other methods.

The meticulous nature of hair follicle sampling guarantees that substance detection is highly accurate. This method provides peace of mind by reliably confirming or ruling out drug use, making it the preferred choice for those in need of prompt and precise results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Salem, NM can enhance compliance and workplace safety through hair follicle drug testing. Utilizing this method aligns with drug-free workplace policies, as it offers a thorough screening capability that protects against potential legal challenges.

This robust testing method provides the assurance that companies are adhering to regulatory requirements. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that their drug testing processes are equitable and effective, contributing to a safer work environment.

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