Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as a valuable method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within its growing fibers. When collected near the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to about three months for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's size) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. By head hair, we mean exclusively scalp hair. Body hair pertains to all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key steps in laboratory processing of a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial processing of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This includes verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening performs a preliminary quick scan for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive outcome must be confirmed for court admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for why hair drug screening is the most challenging methodology to perform.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. Every step from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests" being used, the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Traditional urine tests fall short compared to hair follicle testing, especially in Hyde Park, NY. Hair drug tests deliver superior detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which detect short-term drug use, hair testing provides a broader insight into an individual's substance history, making it the preferred method for employers and legal institutions.
In Hyde Park, NY, the extensive detection period offered by hair follicle tests is a game-changer. Whereas urine tests have a short window, hair tests provide insights into drug use over 90 days. This long-term view helps employers understand applicants' or employees' history more comprehensively, supporting informed decision-making processes.
Hair follicle testing in Hyde Park, NY, stands strong as a method resistant to tampering, offering reliable results. The collection and analysis processes are strictly observed, making it difficult to adulterate samples. This robustness ensures the integrity of the testing process, reducing the risk of incorrect results and maintaining trust in outcomes.
Access to convenient testing locations is a breeze in Hyde Park, NY. Thanks to a vast network of nationwide centers, getting a test is quick and hassle-free. Local and easily accessible, these centers provide the necessary flexibility, ensuring individuals can undergo testing at a location that suits their needs seamlessly and without inconvenience.
In Hyde Park, NY, the process for hair follicle testing is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering the test to providing a sample and receiving results, every step is conducted with discretion. This approach addresses privacy concerns, ensuring that all involved feel secure and at ease throughout the testing experience.
Competitive pricing and swift processing make hair follicle testing an attractive option in Hyde Park, NY. Providing excellent value, the quick turnaround ensures companies of varying sizes can have peace of mind. This affordability combined with efficiency makes it a preferred choice for many seeking dependable and fast-testing solutions.
For residents of Hyde Park, NY, hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and rapid outcomes. Their high accuracy in detecting substances is unmatched, ensuring dependable results. This method's swiftness paired with precision makes it a superior choice for those needing reliable and timely drug testing results.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Hyde Park, NY, offers assurance and compliance for employers. Adhering to drug-free workplace policies lessens legal vulnerabilities and enhances safety. This testing approach ensures companies remain up-to-date with compliance requirements while promoting a secure and productive work environment.