Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. Collecting hair near the scalp allows for up to a three-month detection period for various substances. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
Obtaining a 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) directly from the scalp yields approximately 100mg of hair, which is the perfect amount for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional components, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the hair sample using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair not be present, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing procedure in the lab comprises four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the introductory phase where a sample is integrated into the lab's system. This step consists of verifying the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry that an electronic chain of custody system doesn't cover.
Screening is an initial assessment for drug presence. While it is a cost-effective strategy to dismiss drug usage in most cases, any positive screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need further confirmation.
For samples testing presumptively positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening more intricate.
Postive screening results require confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The transition from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes examination as per CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is misleading, as the analysis is done on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why is Hair Testing Superior? In comparison to urine testing, hair follicle testing provides notable advantages in Mineral Springs, NC. Its extended detection window and resilience to tampering make it essential for thorough testing.
Extended Observation: The hair follicle test shines with its ability to trace drug use up to 90 days prior. In Mineral Springs, NC, this advantage allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of potential employees' substance use history.
Secure Testing Standards: Hair follicle tests in Mineral Springs, NC stand out due to their robust nature against tampering. This ensures that results are reliable and irrefutable.
Accessible Testing Facilities: Our extensive network of testing centers, including those in Mineral Springs, NC, guarantees that drug testing is convenient and straightforward.
Effortless and Confidential: The hair follicle testing process in Mineral Springs, NC is designed for simplicity and privacy. From ordering to receiving results, the entire method is straightforward and confidential.
Cost-Effective Solutions: In Mineral Springs, NC, our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround offer great value, delivering peace of mind for businesses large and small.
Swift, Accurate, and Dependable: In Mineral Springs, NC, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precision and rapid results. Known for their high accuracy, these tests are capable of identifying substance use effectively. Employers and individuals in need of reliable testing can trust in the speed and accuracy of this method.
Employer Assurance: Utilizing hair follicle tests in Mineral Springs, NC ensures compliance with workplace drug policies, reducing legal concerns and promoting safety.
