Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. As hair grows, it captures biomarkers within its strands, showing a long-term record of substance use. Collected near the scalp, hair can indicate up to a quarter-year of drug and alcohol consumption. The collection of hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
An ideal sample consists of a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil), which provides 100mg of hair for testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. A jeweler’s scale should be used for weighing specimens. If scalp hair isn't obtainable, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers solely to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in lab processing for drug testing are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, where the sample enters the lab system. This step ensures the sample’s packaging and transportation were secure, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing information not covered by an electronic custody record.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for illicit substance use. Though an economical method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive Screen requires subsequent confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Positive presumptive Screen results necessitate further Confirmation.
If a sample is deemed presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other tests (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair testing is notably challenging.
Confirmation for any positive Screening outcome is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo a wash before Confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes the hair strand, not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
In Trujillo, NM, hair follicle testing distinguishes itself from traditional urine tests. It offers superior detection accuracy and reliability, proving advantageous for those needing thorough assessments. Hair tests detect substances over longer periods, unlike urine tests which may miss patterns of use. This makes hair testing a superior choice for employers aiming for accurate drug policies.
Employers in Trujillo, NM, benefit from the extended detection window provided by hair follicle tests. These tests identify drug use up to 90 days prior, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history. Such extensive detection capability is unmatched by other testing methods, allowing employers to make informed decisions based on reliable data.
Hair follicle testing in Trujillo, NM, combats sample adulteration effectively. Its tamper-resistant nature ensures that results cannot be easily manipulated, providing trustworthy outcomes. This method significantly minimizes risks associated with altered samples, bringing a level of reliability to the testing process that other methods struggle to achieve.
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient testing locations nationwide, including in Trujillo, NM. Our widespread network ensures that individuals can access testing services hassle-free, saving time and effort. The ease and accessibility of our centers make drug testing a stress-free experience for employees and employers alike.
In Trujillo, NM, the drug testing process is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering to taking and receiving results, every step is streamlined to ensure user privacy. Concerns over ease of use are addressed, providing a straightforward and discreet testing experience that respects personal privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.
Accredited Drug Testing in Trujillo, NM, offers competitive pricing structures combined with quick turnaround times. This provides exceptional value for companies of all sizes, ensuring affordability without compromising on quality. Fast and cost-effective testing delivers peace of mind, reinforcing trust and satisfaction for all involved parties.
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests in Trujillo, NM, set them apart. Not only are they quick, but they also deliver high levels of accuracy in detecting substances. This reliability ensures that results are both fast and impeccable, offering peace of mind in crucial situations. Hair tests effectively discern substance use with time-efficient mechanisms, allowing for swift decision-making processes.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Trujillo, NM, helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal risks while promoting safety. This testing method offers peace of mind, ensuring that companies adhere to regulations and maintain a secure and compliant work environment. Enhanced protection against liabilities makes it an attractive option for businesses.