Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests are now recognized as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term history of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the growing strands. When gathered near the scalp, hair can indicate drug and alcohol use up to a 3-month period. Collection of hair is uncomplicated, somewhat resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 strands (near the diameter of a #2 pencil) close to the head produces 100mg of hair, which is ideal for analysis. For EtG, additional tests, or any exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale is recommended to weigh the sample. If head hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair is acceptable. 'Head hair' refers specifically to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (such as facial or armpit hair).
Process Overview
The sequence of steps in processing a drug test result in the lab includes Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory processing of a sample into the lab’s database. It verifies that the sample was properly sealed and mailed, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data needed beyond what an electronic chain of custody system provides.
Screening is a preliminary check for the presence of drugs. Though cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive result in Screening must be substantiated for legal standing. Samples flagged as presumptive positive in Screening need further confirmation.
For any presumptive positive sample in Screening, additional hair from the original specimen is used for Extraction. In this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other tests (like urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies to execute.
Confirmation of any Screening positive result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples marked presumptive positive are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab processing from Accessioning to Confirmation meets reviews under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair requirements and the accreditation for ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", this test examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Analysis
In Stony Brook University, NY, the advantages of hair follicle testing over traditional urine tests are clear. By offering superior detection and reliability, hair tests provide insight that urine tests may miss. The extended observation period and detailed analysis of hair samples surpass the conventional limitations, ensuring a more accurate result.
At Stony Brook University, NY, hair follicle tests boast an unparalleled extended detection window, spanning up to 90 days. This expansive timeframe gives employers a broader analysis of an individual's substance use history. Such comprehensive assessments assist in informed decision-making, aligning with workplace regulatory standards.
Hair Testing: A Secure Method
In Stony Brook University, NY, the resistance of hair follicle testing to tampering ensures accuracy and dependability. By minimizing the risk of sample adulteration, this testing method delivers clear, unquestionable results. Trusting hair tests means trusting science and procedure, safeguarding testing integrity.
Accredited Drug Testing offers unmatched convenience with numerous testing sites not only nationwide but also locally at Stony Brook University, NY. Our extensive network simplifies the testing process, ensuring easy access for clients seeking quick and hassle-free evaluations. This broad reach underscores our commitment to accessible service.
At Stony Brook University, NY, the simple, confidential process of hair follicle testing ensures clients' privacy and ease of use. From ordering to receiving results, every step is streamlined, addressing concerns about confidentiality and user experience. The straightforward approach guarantees satisfaction and trust from our clients.
Affordable and Efficient Services
In Stony Brook University, NY, our pricing structures for hair follicle testing are competitive, promising fast turnarounds without breaking the bank. Our commitment to affordability paired with efficiency offers great value, appealing to companies irrespective of their size.
Stony Brook University, NY relies on hair follicle drug testing due to its speed, precision, and reliability. This method ensures a swift process without compromising accuracy, meticulously identifying any substance use. Employing such advanced testing leads to trustworthy outcomes expeditiously, benefiting both individuals and organizations seeking dependable data.
Stony Brook University, NY, finds solace in hair follicle testing for its role in maintaining workplace compliance and safety. Utilizing this method aligns with drug-free policies while minimizing legal liabilities. By opting for hair testing, employers achieve peace of mind, confident in their adherence to necessary regulations.