Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair analysis offers a long-range view by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over an approximate duration of 90 days. The collection process is easy, tampering is quite challenging, and it can be shipped without hassle.
A sample from the scalp that is 1.5 inches long, comprising roughly 200 strands equating to the width of a #2 pencil, will yield 100mg of hair, optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, or panels exceeding ten, 150mg is suggested. We advocate using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. In cases where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The primary phases in processing a laboratory drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial stage where the sample is incorporated into the lab’s system. This step involves checking that the sample has been properly sealed and transported, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and filling in any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a preliminary, cost-effective means to detect drug abuse, although any positive findings demand confirmation for legal admissibility. A presumptive positive in Screening necessitates further confirmation.
For samples showing presumptive positives at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the sample and made ready for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods such as urine or oral fluid, hence making hair drug testing a challenging methodology to implement.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are employed to validate any positive results from Screening. Before Confirmation, presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review in line with both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", it is actually the hair strand being examined, not the scalp’s hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Scotts Corners, NY
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests because it can discover substances long after the most recent use. In contrast to urine tests, which commonly identify drug use in a short window, hair follicle tests provide more extended detection, up to 90 days.
This extensive time frame ensures more accurate insights into potential drug habits, making it advantageous for employers and relevant institutions concerned with substance use patterns.
Extended Detection Window in Scotts Corners, NY
An undeniable benefit of hair follicle testing is its extended detection timeline of up to 90 days. This length provides insight into a person's long-term drug use patterns, something urine tests can't match.
Employers can foresightfully evaluate applicants or employees' substance use history, ensuring a safe and compliant workplace. This comprehensive overview aids in more informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Scotts Corners, NY
Hair follicle testing in Scotts Corners offers a tamper-proof method that minimizes risks of sample adulteration. Its collection method is stringent, ensuring the sample's integrity is maintained throughout the testing process.
This assurance of genuine and reliable results encourages trust in the findings, highlighting its appeal over other testing methods which may be more susceptible to manipulation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Scotts Corners, NY
The accessibility of testing sites nationwide makes hair follicle testing accommodating and stress-free. Individuals can easily access tests without the need for extensive travel.
Being a local testing hub, Scotts Corners offers immediate services, facilitating quick and efficient scheduling, further enhancing convenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Scotts Corners, NY
The process for obtaining a hair follicle drug test is streamlined, ensuring privacy and ease. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is designed to be straightforward and discreet.
Confidentiality and simplicity in the testing procedure put tested individuals at ease, addressing concerns over privacy and security.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Scotts Corners, NY
We offer competitive pricing for hair follicle tests, ensuring that outstanding service is accessible to all, regardless of company size.
The swift turnaround ensures results are received quickly, delivering excellent value. This mix of affordability and speed supports businesses in maintaining a drug-free environment without financial burdens.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Scotts Corners, NY
The hair follicle drug test in Scotts Corners guarantees precise and swift results. Known for its high accuracy, it can detect a range of substances with superior precision compared to other testing methods.
Its efficiency not only speeds up the decision-making process for employers but also provides peace of mind to those seeking assurances of a drug-free environment. This reliability makes it a favored choice in the region.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Scotts Corners, NY
Implementing hair follicle tests ensures strict adherence to corporate drug-free policies, reducing employer liabilities. Businesses feel assured in upholding regulations with this reliable test, which is difficult to sabotage.
Enhanced security in tracking prolonged drug use translates to safer workplaces, mitigating risks associated with substance abuse.