Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It provides a prolonged record of substance intake by capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reflect a substance use history for up to about 3 months for both alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hairs (equivalent to a #2 pencil’s width) closest to the scalp, yields 100mg—the perfect amount for analysis. For EtG, additional screenings, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It's best to measure the hair on a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is absent, a similar volume of body hair may be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair. "Body hair" includes other types, like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The key stages in lab processing a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially integrated into the lab system. This involves verifying that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing extra data entry that an electronic chain of custody system might not provide.
Screening serves as a preliminary check for drugs of abuse. While it's a cost-efficient approach to dismiss most negative samples, positive results from Screening need further confirmation for legal standing. Samples testing presumptive positive must undergo additional confirmation.
For a sample that tests presumptive positive in Screening, extra hair is extracted and readied for Extraction. At this juncture, drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other test methods (e.g., urine or saliva), which makes hair drug testing more complex.
Positive screening findings are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed based on both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Nelliston, NY
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests in countless ways. In Nelliston, NY, the enhanced detection accuracy and reliability of hair tests are well-regarded.
Extended Detection Window in Nelliston, NY
Employers in Nelliston, NY, benefit from hair follicle testing thanks to its extended detection of past drug use. This method reveals a comprehensive substance use history over a span of up to 90 days, unlike other tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Nelliston, NY
Hair follicle testing in Nelliston, NY, offers a robust defense against sample tampering. This method's design minimizes the risk of result adulteration, delivering trustworthy and definitive outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Nelliston, NY
With easily accessible testing facilities in Nelliston, NY, and nationwide, undergoing hair follicle drug testing is convenient and straightforward. The availability of numerous centers simplifies the process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Nelliston, NY
In Nelliston, NY, the hair follicle drug testing process is user-friendly and secure. Clear procedures ensure ease and privacy, addressing concerns about confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Nelliston, NY
Nelliston, NY, offers competitive hair follicle testing pricing with quick turnaround. Companies get excellent value through pricing structures designed to meet various business needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Nelliston, NY
In Nelliston, NY, hair follicle drug tests offer swift, precise, and dependable results. With remarkable accuracy in identifying substance use, these tests stand out for their precision and speed in delivering findings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nelliston, NY
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Nelliston, NY, grants employers peace of mind and ensures policy adherence. This method decreases legal concerns and promotes workplace safety through enforced drug-free standards.