Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers of growing hair strands capture biomarkers, offering a long-term record of alcohol and substance use. By acquiring hair close to the scalp, it can provide insights into drug and alcohol use for up to three months. Hair sampling is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands, comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil and taken closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional components, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is suggested. We suggest measuring the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be taken. When mentioning head hair, we imply scalp hair specifically. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's repertoire. It verifies the correct sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any supplementary data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Though Screening serves as an economical means to dismiss the usage of drugs in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is essential for legal acceptability. Samples positive in Screening necessitate additional validation.
When a Screening stage indicates a positive result, additional hair is sourced from the original sample for further preparation during Extraction. This phase retrieves drugs from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), illustrating the complexity of hair drug testing.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation through techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples are cleaned prior to Confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and along with accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests", the procedure evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle under the skin.
In comparing hair follicle tests with traditional urine tests, the former offers distinct advantages in Taos Pueblo, NM. Hair testing provides superior detection accuracy and is preferred by those seeking reliable drug screening methods.
The main benefit lies in its extended detection period, capturing a comprehensive view of substance use over time, unlike urine tests which have a shorter window of detection.
Hair follicle testing in Taos Pueblo, NM showcases a much wider detection period, covering drug use history up to 90 days. This extended window offers a complete picture of an individual's substance use.
By using this test, employers gain insight into long-term behavior, providing an edge over methods that only capture recent drug use, ensuring they make informed decisions.
One of the standout features of hair follicle tests is their tamper-resistant nature, especially crucial in Taos Pueblo, NM. These tests minimize the risk of sample adulteration, essential for reliable results.
The integrity of the testing process means that the results are dependable and unquestionable, making it a trusted method for substance abuse professionals and employers alike.
Offering convenient and accessible testing services across Taos Pueblo, NM, our centers provide easy and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing.
With our nationwide network of testing locations, individuals and companies can quickly find a testing center close to them, making the process seamless and efficient.
The process for hair follicle testing in Taos Pueblo, NM, is simple and confidential, ensuring ease and privacy. From ordering to obtaining results, each step is designed for user convenience.
With an emphasis on discretion and efficiency, the testing process aligns with the needs of those seeking reliable and private drug screening solutions.
Competitive pricing and fast turnaround times are the hallmarks of hair follicle testing in Taos Pueblo, NM. Companies can enjoy excellent value while receiving accurate and timely results.
Our commitment to affordable pricing makes this reliable testing method accessible to businesses of all sizes, providing financial flexibility and peace of mind.
The precision and efficiency of hair follicle drug tests make them a preferred choice for fast and reliable screening in Taos Pueblo, NM. High accuracy in detecting substances ensures that this testing method stands apart in drug testing services.
The ability to provide swift and precise results gives individuals and employers confidence in the testing process. Quicker turnaround times in obtaining results is a top reason why individuals prefer this method of drug testing.
Employers in Taos Pueblo, NM, find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This not only reduces legal risks but also enhances overall safety.
By adopting this method, companies show a commitment to maintaining a safe and drug-free environment, while benefiting from the assurance of accurate results.
