Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is regarded as an effective method to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair archives a prolonged history of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and uncomplicated to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, composed of around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, the ideal quantity for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Verifying the specimen's weight on a jeweler's scale is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair may be gathered. "Head hair" pertains exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in the laboratory processing of a drug test result comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial processing of a sample into a laboratory's system, confirming that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data input not provided through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid evaluation for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be validated to be admissible in legal proceedings. Any samples that are preliminarily positive in Screening require secondary confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive samples are washed before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Tocito, NM
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy over urine tests. While urine tests require narrower detection windows, hair tests capture a wider window, up to 90 days. This greater reliability supports employers in enforcing drug-free workplace policies. Moreover, hair follicle tests minimize fraudulent attempts thanks to observed collections, adding to their credibility.
Extended Detection Window in Tocito, NM
Hair follicle testing permits detection of drug use over extended periods, up to 90 days. This vast window offers businesses a thorough overview of substance use history. In contrast to other methods, hair testing becomes invaluable for screening and monitoring long-term substance habits, offering a clearer image for employers and reducing the likelihood of unexpected positive tests during employment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Tocito, NM
Hair follicle tests are notably tamper-resistant, diminishing the risk of sample adulteration. The strictly observed collection process significantly lessens the possibility of falsified results, thereby ensuring authenticity. This reliability reassures both employers and individuals that results reflect genuine data, promoting a truthful assessment free from deceptive methods.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Tocito, NM
Our network of testing centers spans nationwide, allowing quick and easy access to drug testing services. In Tocito, NM, this convenience translates to hassle-free testing experiences, greatly benefiting employers and individuals. Prompt and reliable, these widespread locations ensure that quality testing is always within reach, minimizing disruption to schedules.
Simple, Confidential Process in Tocito, NM
The process of ordering and partaking in hair follicle tests is both simple and confidential. From scheduling to receiving results, every step prioritizes privacy and ease of use. This streamlined approach allays any privacy concerns, part of a commitment to protecting personal information while ensuring the process remains user-friendly and straightforward for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Tocito, NM
Offering competitive pricing, our services provide excellent value. Rapid turnaround times characterize our hair testing services, meeting the needs of companies of varied sizes. We balance cost-effectiveness with reliability, ensuring clients receive top-tier service without excessive costs. This swift and efficient service offers peace of mind, knowing results will be received promptly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Tocito, NM
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed. They provide high accuracy in identifying substance use, ensuring trust in results. With a lab process that leaves little room for errors, you can confidently rely on the results for accurate information. Hair tests not only excel in detection but deliver results expediently, paving the way for swift decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Tocito, NM
Employers gain peace of mind with hair follicle testing as it assures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. By incorporating these tests, businesses can mitigate legal risks and enhance safety. Hair testing reinforces diligence in maintaining regulatory standards, providing a shield against workplace incidents and fostering a secure, substance-free environment.
