Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a highly effective means for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers a detection period extending up to three months for alcohol and substances. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp, provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. In cases where scalp hair is limited, an equivalent quantity of body hair is an acceptable substitute. Reference to head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning covers the initial handling of a sample upon entry into the lab’s system. This stage ensures the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry absent from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary analysis to spot potential drug abuse. Though Screening is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive screen warrants confirmation for court validity. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
For samples with a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. This step involves isolating drugs from hair at lower concentrations compared to alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Washes of presumptive positive samples precede confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing stands out in Sherman, NM for its superior detection capabilities compared to urine testing. While traditional urine tests serve a purpose, hair analysis extends the detection timeframe substantially, up to 90 days, showcasing its robustness. This means hair testing offers a more comprehensive insight into substance use history, providing a more dependable assessment method.
One of the standout features of hair follicle testing in Sherman, NM is its extended detection window. It effectively monitors drug use for up to 90 days, providing employers with a thorough overview of an individual's substance use history. This longer detection period helps in making informed decisions based on a comprehensive evaluation.
Hair follicle tests in Sherman, NM are significantly resistant to tampering. They reduce the possibility of adulteration, ensuring the results are both reliable and unequivocal. This method outshines others in its ability to deliver trustworthy, tamper-proof outcomes, elevating the integrity of the testing procedure for all stakeholders involved.
Accredited Drug Testing offers unparalleled convenience in Sherman, NM, with testing centers nationwide. This ensures easy access to drug testing services, providing quick and hassle-free solutions. Our expansive network guarantees individuals and employers can find a local testing center close to their location whenever needed.
The process for hair follicle testing in Sherman, NM is designed to be both simple and confidential. From ordering tests to receiving results, every step is straightforward, maintaining a strong emphasis on privacy. This ensures that users experience ease of use without any concerns over confidentiality breaches or process complexities.
In Sherman, NM, our hair follicle testing services offer affordable pricing coupled with swift turnaround times. We deliver significant value, helping companies of all sizes manage their testing needs effectively. With our competitive rates and rapid results, businesses can ensure they remain compliant without financial strain.
In Sherman, NM, hair follicle drug testing is renowned for providing fast, accurate results. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests offer incredible precision in detecting substance use. Their speed and reliability make them an invaluable tool for those seeking dependable outcomes rapidly. It's this high accuracy that ensures individuals and employers can trust the findings from hair follicle tests.
Employers in Sherman, NM find peace of mind with hair follicle testing due to its compliance benefits. Adopting this method supports adherence to drug-free policies and decreases the risk of legal complications. By enhancing safety and compliance, employers can foster a secure workplace environment with this reliable testing option.