Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The fibers in hair strands, as they grow, capture biomarkers, thus providing a prolonged record of alcohol and drug exposure. When sampled near the scalp, hair can indicate alcohol and drug intake over roughly a three-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to alter, and simple to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of approximately 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness), cut as close to the scalp as possible, yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for analysis. For EtG, additional analysis, or tests exceeding 10 panels, it's suggested to procure 150mg of hair. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be substituted. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types of hair (e.g., facial, axillary).
Overview of the Process
The laboratory process for evaluating drug test results encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing of a specimen within a lab's framework. This step includes ensuring the sample was suitably sealed and dispatched, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data input not captured by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides an initial preliminary assessment for substances. Although this cost-efficient approach is useful for excluding drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive result is necessary for courtroom admissibility. Samples that indicate a presumptive positive during Screening must undergo a follow-up Confirmation.
When a sample is presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair from the initial sample is processed for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than methods like urine or oral fluid testing, hence the complexity of hair drug analysis.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every sample indicating a presumptive positive is cleansed prior to Confirmation if required. The complete laboratory workflow, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidance and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though commonly named "hair follicle tests," the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, not the hair follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Poquott, NY Hair follicle tests offer superior benefits over traditional urine tests. They possess higher accuracy and reliability, making them an ideal choice for identifying drug use over an extended period.
Extended Detection Window in Poquott, NY Hair follicle testing stands out due to its ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days. This extensive window provides employers with a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s substance history, ensuring informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Poquott, NY A remarkable advantage of hair follicle testing is its resilience against tampering. By offering secure and reliable results, these tests eliminate the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring trustworthy outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Poquott, NY With nationwide testing centers, Accredited Drug Testing offers easy and hassle-free access to drug testing services, ensuring convenience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Poquott, NY Our testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential, ensuring ease of use and privacy for all participants, providing them with the assurance they need.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Poquott, NY Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing paired with quick turnaround times, delivering excellent value and ensuring peace of mind for businesses of every size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Poquott, NY The precision and quick results of hair follicle drug tests are second to none. Hair analysis provides a highly accurate detection of substance use, making it a valuable tool for timely and dependable drug screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Poquott, NY Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in maintaining drug-free workplaces. This compliance not only minimizes legal risks but also significantly boosts workplace safety.
