Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extensive timeline of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the fabric of the developing hair strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can yield up to about a 3-month detection timeline for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil's thickness) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for evaluation and verification. For EtG enhancements, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, the same quantity of body hair may be used. Head hair specifically denotes only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the initial integration of a specimen into a lab’s protocol. This involves assuring that the specimen was securely sealed and dispatched correctly, designating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not facilitated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is a budget-friendly method to dismiss drug consumption in most specimens, a positive screen must be verified to be valid in court. Any specimens that are tentatively positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a specimen show a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, supplementary hair is extracted from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a notably reduced concentration compared to other methods (ex. urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening presents the most rigorous methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All tentatively positive specimens are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The complete lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination actually analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Outperforms Urine Testing
In Belville, NC, hair follicle testing offers enhanced accuracy over urine tests. Key benefits include a wider detection timeframe and increased reliability. Employers and legal institutions recognize hair testing's superior capability in identifying prolonged substance use, making it a preferred choice.
Prolonged Detection Period in Belville, NC
For organizations in Belville, hair follicle tests reveal substance use history extending up to 90 days. This extensive window is invaluable, offering employers a detailed perspective on an individual's drug usage behavior, significantly assisting in informed decision-making.
Secured Testing Method in Belville, NC
Hair follicle testing minimizes adulteration risks, ensuring authentic and irrefutable results. Unlike other methods, it's inherently tamper-resistant, offering a robust solution for reliable drug testing, crucial for maintaining integrity in various settings.
Convenience in Nationwide Testing
Our expansive network of testing centers across Belville, NC ensures accessible and seamless testing procedures. This widespread presence facilitates swift and uncomplicated access to testing services, catering to diverse needs irrespective of location.
Effortless and Confidential Procedures
In Belville, NC, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and secure, from ordering to results delivery. This approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use, fostering a trusted and discreet testing environment.
Cost-Effective Pricing and Expedited Results
Our services in Belville, NC offer competitive pricing frameworks paired with prompt result turnarounds. This combination ensures exceptional value, allowing businesses of all sizes to conduct reliable testing without compromising cost-effectiveness.
Fast and Reliable Outcomes in Belville, NC
Hair follicle drug tests offer a superior balance of speed and precision, ensuring swift detection of substance use. This innovative testing approach maximizes accuracy while providing timely results, crucial for effective decision-making in today’s fast-paced environments.
Ensuring Compliance and Assurance for Employers
The application of hair follicle testing in Belville, NC promotes adherence to drug-free workplace policies. It mitigates legal concerns and enhances workplace safety, providing employers peace of mind through compliant and secure drug screening practices.