Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers an extended history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair. When extracted near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to three months for both alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, with minimal possibilities for tampering, and it is conveniently transportable.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's thickness) close to the scalp, yields 100mg, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a quantity of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample weight. In the absence of scalp hair, a corresponding amount of body hair may be obtained. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types, such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test samples encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any necessary data entry absent from an electronic custody chain system.
Screening is the preliminary evaluation for drug presence. While Screening offers a budget-friendly solution to exclude drug use in the majority of cases, a positive screening must be confirmed for legal acceptability. Samples showing presumptive positives during Screening require further confirmation.
Should a sample yield presumptive positives in Screening, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. During this process, drugs are concentrated from hair at a significantly lower rate than from other substances (like urine or oral fluids), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug screening.
Positive screening confirmations are conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples indicating presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire progression from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Longhurst, NC
Hair follicle tests offer a considerable edge over traditional urine tests, especially in detection efficiency. Their ability to identify prolonged substance use is unparalleled, capturing drug patterns missed by shorter detection methods.
Employers favor the accuracy of hair tests, as they're almost immune to tampering, ensuring superior reliability in results.
Extended Detection Window in Longhurst, NC
A key advantage of hair follicle testing is its ability to track drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. Employers benefit by gaining insights into longer-term behaviors rather than just recent activity.
This broad detection capability allows for a more comprehensive understanding of a person's substance use history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Longhurst, NC
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces risks of manipulating samples, offering indisputable results. Unlike urine tests, hair samples are harder to adulterate, providing robust defenses against tampering.
This ensures the legitimacy and reliability of the test, fostering trust in the results provided to stakeholders.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Longhurst, NC
Our expansive network of testing centers across the country ensures a smooth testing process wherever you are. Local facilities in Longhurst offer quick and easy access to testing services.
This accessibility ensures that individuals and businesses can seamlessly undertake necessary tests without logistical concerns.
Simple, Confidential Process in Longhurst, NC
The process of ordering, undertaking, and receiving results from a hair follicle test is straightforward and confidential. The privacy of individuals is prioritized, ensuring personal data and results remain protected.
Ease of use coupled with confidentiality reassures clients, ensuring a positive testing experience throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Longhurst, NC
Our competitive pricing models and quick result delivery offer excellent value. Companies, regardless of size, benefit from economical options without sacrificing quality.
Fast turnaround times and affordable costs provide businesses with timely insights essential for decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Longhurst, NC
The hair follicle drug test shines with its quick and accurate results. By meticulously analyzing hair samples, the findings offer unmatched precision in identifying substance use.
The expedient and reliable nature of these tests provides assurance for stakeholders, ensuring decisions are made based on solid data points.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Longhurst, NC
Hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace mandates, minimizing legal risks and enhancing safety. These tests align with regulatory requirements, reducing exposure to potential liabilities.
Employers gain peace of mind knowing their workforce adheres to established safety protocols without compromise.
