Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now widely regarded as an efficient means for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a prolonged timeline of alcohol and other drugs by encasing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When gathered near the scalp, hair can extend up to a roughly 3-month detection period for alcohol and other drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of roughly 200 hairs (similar to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a similar quantity of body hair might be used. Mention of head hair pertains to scalp hair solely. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary procedures in the laboratory processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary treatment of a sample in a laboratory’s framework. This phase ensures the sample was sealed and sent correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes an initial swift evaluation for illicit drugs. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to negate drug consumption across most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting why hair drug screening is the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Polkton, NC
Hair follicle testing offers extended detection periods compared to traditional urine tests. This means substances consumed over a longer timeframe are detectable, providing a comprehensive insight into an individual's drug use history. Employers and substance abuse professionals in Polkton find this method notably reliable for consistent monitoring.
Moreover, hair tests provide a higher accuracy level, practically impervious to typical tampering methods associated with urine tests. This enhanced reliability makes it the preferred choice for entities needing foolproof substance use data.
Extended Detection Window in Polkton, NC
Hair follicle testing provides a broad detection window, spanning up to 90 days, capturing a prolonged history of substance use. This timeframe surpasses that of urine tests significantly, offering a thorough perspective for employers monitoring employees or evaluating new applicants.
In Polkton, the ability to review drug use over such an extended period aids businesses in making informed, responsible hiring decisions while ensuring current employees maintain a drug-free lifestyle.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Polkton, NC
Hair follicle tests in Polkton stand out for their resistance to alteration, ensuring samples remain uncompromised, resulting in authentic, trustworthy results. Their robust nature virtually eradicates the risk of tampering often seen in other testing forms.
This reliability is critical for employers who value integrity and accuracy in their drug testing processes, particularly those enforcing rigorous drug-free workplace standards.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Polkton, NC
Accredited Drug Testing boasts facilities nationwide, ensuring accessibility to testing services is never an issue. Residents in Polkton enjoy easy, hassle-free testing access, with multiple local sites catering to their needs promptly.
Our vast network of locations assures that wherever clients are, testing is quick and straightforward, eliminating the inconvenience of lengthy travel, thus providing a seamless testing experience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Polkton, NC
The process of obtaining, executing, and obtaining outcomes from hair follicle testing in Polkton is streamlined and private. Handling everything discreetly protects all involved's privacy while ensuring ease at each step.
From ordering to sample collection and result delivery, the process is simple and secure, addressing privacy concerns efficiently and making it a go-to option for those prioritizing confidentiality and ease.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Polkton, NC
Ensuring both competitive pricing and swift results, our hair follicle testing in Polkton provides excellent value for businesses of any size. Quick turnaround minimizes downtime and enhances decision-making efficiency.
With both affordability and reliability, hair testing remains the superior choice, offering companies great benefits without the burdens of high costs or lengthy waits for results, proving invaluable in today’s business landscape.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Polkton, NC
Employing hair follicle tests in Polkton ensures swift, precise, and trustworthy detection of substance use. This method not only promises unparalleled accuracy but also guarantees quick outcomes, providing peace of mind and saving valuable time for both employers and individuals.
With hair follicle testing, Polkton residents can experience the benefits of advanced technology designed for superior accuracy. The fast processing time ensures that results are delivered promptly, eliminating long wait periods and making it a reliable choice for all testing needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Polkton, NC
Employers in Polkton benefit substantially from hair follicle testing as it guarantees adherence to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal threats and bolstering workplace safety. This peace of mind is priceless, knowing operations remain compliant.
Regular hair testing not only preserves company integrity but also creates a reassuring atmosphere where safety and regulatory adherence are a top priority, enhancing the overall work environment.
