Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is emerging as a dynamic instrument for identifying substance use. It captures a detailed history of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the hair's growing fibers. When sampled near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month detection timeline for substance use. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
An optimal specimen consists of a 1.5-inch length containing around 200 strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yielding 100mg of hair suitable for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or panels greater than 10, a sample weighing 150mg is suggested. It's advantageous to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is insufficient, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair specifically pertain to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (like facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing of drug test results include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step to incorporate a sample into a laboratory’s system. This process checks the sample's seal and shipment, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfills any remaining data input absent from an electronic chain of custody resource.
Screening conducts a preliminary review for drugs of abuse. While a cost-efficient means to exclude drug presence in most samples, any sample that tests positive in Screening necessitates a subsequent confirmation for legal acceptance.
In cases where Screening indicates positive results, additional hair is collected from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), underscoring the complexity of conducting hair drug tests.
The Confirmation of any Screening-identified positive is achieved through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all potential positive samples are cleansed accordingly. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently termed as "hair follicle tests," this evaluation examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Deposit, NY
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. Its ability to unveil a longer history of drug use makes it a preferred choice for many organizations, ensuring reliability in results. Employers benefit from its comprehensive surveillance capability.
Extended Detection Window in Deposit, NY
Hair follicle testing reveals drug use over an extended period—up to 90 days—offering employers a detailed perspective on an individual's substance use history. This method helps employers make more informed decisions about potential candidates or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Deposit, NY
Hair follicle tests drastically lessen the likelihood of sample adulteration, yielding trustworthy and unmistakable results. Its design makes it highly resistant to manipulation, ensuring a more dependable testing outcome.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Deposit, NY
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation allows for fast, efficient, and easy access to testing services. This convenience ensures minimal disruption and expedites the testing process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Deposit, NY
The process for ordering and undergoing hair follicle tests is straightforward and private, addressing concerns about privacy and user-friendliness. Results are handled confidentially, promoting user trust and ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Deposit, NY
Our competitive pricing structures, paired with swift turnaround times, provide exceptional value and ease for businesses of all scales. This approach delivers cost-effective and timely solutions for drug testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Deposit, NY
Hair follicle drug tests provide quick and precise results. They stand out for their capability to accurately detect substance use, ensuring reliability in results. This speed and accuracy are crucial for making informed decisions regarding substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Deposit, NY
Hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal concerns and promoting a safe working environment. This method provides reliable assurance for employers about maintaining compliance.
