Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged history of drugs and alcohol by securing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When gathered from near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to around three months for drugs and alcohol. It's straightforward to collect, relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly matching the circumference of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for both screening and confirmation. For tests like EtG, add-ons, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to collect 150mg of the sample. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. If scalp hair is unavailable, a corresponding quantity of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair refers specifically to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key steps involved in processing a drug test outcome within a lab include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially processed into the lab’s system. This process includes confirming the sample has been sealed and shipped accurately, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any additional data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial, rapid test for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive screening result must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Any presumptively positive samples need further confirmation.
If a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, extra hair is sourced from the original sample and processed for Extraction. Here, drugs are separated from hair at a notably lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation for any positive screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo a wash before confirmation as necessary. The entire process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle below the scalp.
Comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine analysis in Clifton Springs, NY reveals clear advantages. The accuracy and breadth of detection are superior with hair testing.
With extended detection, hair testing is dependable and efficient, providing a more complete history of substance use.
In Clifton Springs, NY, hair follicle testing presents an extensive detection window, identifying drug use for up to 90 days.
This method gives employers a thorough insight into an individual's substance use over time, crucial for formulating a comprehensive view.
Clifton Springs, NY finds tamper-resistant qualities in hair follicle tests, minimizing the risk of sample tampering.
Hair testing offers unquestionable results, ensuring reliability and integrity in every test administered.
Accessing testing services is easy in Clifton Springs, NY, thanks to our convenient testing locations.
Nationwide centers provide a hassle-free experience, ensuring swift and easy access to essential testing.
The process in Clifton Springs, NY is simple and confidential, from ordering to receiving results.
Privacy is paramount, and the straightforward procedure addresses confidentiality concerns efficiently.
Clifton Springs, NY boasts competitive pricing for hair tests, offering quick turnaround times.
Companies of all sizes benefit from the affordable rates and reliable service, ensuring excellent value and peace of mind.
In Clifton Springs, NY, hair follicle drug tests offer quick and precise outcomes, setting a high standard in accuracy for spotting substance use.
The reliability of results through hair testing is unmatched, as every strand provides a wealth of information, making it superior in detecting recent to chronic substance use.
For businesses in Clifton Springs, NY, hair testing aligns with drug-free policies, reducing legal risks and enhancing safety.
Employers gain peace of mind using hair tests, ensuring compliance and maintaining a healthy workplace environment.
