Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The identification of drug and alcohol consumption through hair analysis is now seen as a robust technique. Hair fibers capture biomarkers as the hair strand develops, providing a prolonged chronological record of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol intake for up to roughly three months. Gathering hair is straightforward, harder to tamper with, and simple to send.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of around 200 hair strands, comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil, near the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. References to head hair imply only scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial or axillary).
Process Summary
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation as the primary stages.
Accessioning involves the sample’s initial integration into a laboratory system. This necessitates verifying the sample’s integrity in sealing and shipment, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing extra data entry that might not be provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate the presence of drugs in most samples, a positive screening necessitates confirmation to be valid in judicial proceedings. Any samples that indicate presumptive positive results in Screening demand a secondary confirmation.
Should the Screening phase yield a presumptive positive result, additional hair is extracted from the preliminary sample for further preparation in the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are elucidated from hair at minimal concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which underscores the complexity of conducting hair drug analysis.
Confirmation for any positive screening outcome is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, if needed. The full laboratory journey from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Pros of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is sometimes used, but the test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Weedsport, NY
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing boasts superior detection abilities and reliability. In Weedsport, NY, hair tests extend detection periods, providing a more detailed account of an individual's drug history. Unlike urine tests, which may only detect recent usage, hair testing offers unrivaled accuracy in revealing long-term substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Weedsport, NY
Hair follicle testing in Weedsport, NY, offers a substantial detection window extending up to 90 days. This is crucial for employers seeking a comprehensive review of an applicant or employee's substance use history. With such an extended window, hair testing provides insights into long-term drug use patterns, beyond what traditional methods can offer.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Weedsport, NY
Hair follicle tests are known for their resistance to tampering, significantly lowering the risk of sample adulteration. This reliability ensures unquestionable results, providing both individuals and employers in Weedsport, NY, with confidence in the integrity of the testing process. The secure nature of hair testing makes it a trusted option for accurate drug assessments.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Weedsport, NY
Accredited Drug Testing offers the advantage of convenient testing locations, both nationwide and local, in Weedsport, NY. This extensive network guarantees easy and quick access to services without the hassle, ensuring that testing is as seamless as possible. With local service availability, there's a convenient option close to you.
Simple, Confidential Process in Weedsport, NY
The hair follicle drug testing process in Weedsport, NY, ensures simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering testing services to receiving results, individuals and organizations can expect a smooth experience. Addressing privacy concerns is a priority, making sure the process is discreet and efficient for all users involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Weedsport, NY
Providing value to businesses of all sizes, hair follicle testing in Weedsport, NY, offers competitive pricing and swift turnaround times. This affordability, paired with fast results, gives companies confidence in managing their testing budgets while ensuring timely access to necessary drug evaluations to maintain a safe workplace.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Weedsport, NY
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and rapid outcomes. This testing method offers a high degree of accuracy in identifying substance use, making it a preferred choice for reliable results. In Weedsport, NY, individuals and employers can trust the speed and reliability of hair testing to provide a comprehensive assessment of drug use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Weedsport, NY
Employers in Weedsport, NY, gain assurance from the use of hair follicle testing to maintain compliance with workplace drug-free policies. This method helps reduce legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind knowing the staff comply with company standards and regulations. Hair testing supports an environment of safety and integrity.