Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have evolved into an effective instrument for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands of developing hair. If gathered near the scalp, hair affords an approximation of a 3-month window for detection of alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to acquire, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising approximately 200 hair strands (similar to a #2 pencil size) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for analysis and verification. For EtG, supplementary, and/or evaluations beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. We suggest assessing the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be obtained. By head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair refers to any other type of hair (facial, underarm, and so on).
Process Overview
The laboratory evaluation of a drug analysis result comprises four central phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory setting. This encompasses verifying proper sealing and transportation of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any necessary data input not covered by an electronic custody system.
Screening offers an initial swift assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive result requires verification for courtroom admissibility. Any presumptive positives in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are drawn from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva), explaining why hair drug screening presents the greatest challenges in methodology.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS are used for confirming any positive screening findings. Presumptive positives undergo pre-confirmation washing as required. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Clarification: Though commonly called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
In Morven, NC, hair follicle tests are superior to traditional urine tests. Detection accuracy is enhanced as hair samples showcase a broader drug use history. Whereas urine screens cover recent usage, hair tests offer a clearer long-term picture.
Employers in Morven, NC, value hair follicle testing for extending the detection window to up to 90 days. Unlike other methods, it reveals a longer substance use history, allowing a comprehensive view of an individual’s habits.
The tamper-resistance of hair follicle testing in Morven, NC, provides unmatched security. With less risk of sample adulteration, results remain uncontested and valid.
Morven residents benefit from the convenience of nationwide and local testing centers. Access to hair follicle testing is hassle-free.
The process in Morven, NC, for hair follicle tests is simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, privacy concerns are diligently addressed.
Our hair follicle tests in Morven, NC, offer affordable pricing and fast turnaround.
Hair follicle tests are celebrated for their precision and rapid turnaround in Morven, NC. Speed is combined with accuracy, making these tests top choices for detecting drug use. Analyzing hair samples provides reliable evidence, minimizing the chances of false results.
Deploying hair follicle tests enables employers in Morven, NC, to stay compliant and maintain drug-free environments. Peace of mind ensues from knowing policies are upheld, reducing legal risks.
