Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as a robust method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. It provides extended insight into substance usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. If sampled near the scalp, hair can offer a substance detection span of up to three months. The collection process for hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands of hair (equivalent in width to a no. 2 pencil) taken nearest the scalp provides the ideal 100mg needed for testing. For EtG, additional screenings, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample weighing 150mg is advised. It is suggested to use a jeweler's scale for accuracy. In cases where scalp hair is absent, a similar amount of body hair can be gathered. "Head hair" pertains solely to scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results comprises four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a test sample into a lab's database. This involves confirming the sample was properly sealed and transported, issuing a randomized LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any manual data entry omitted by an automated chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary inspection for drug abuse signs. While cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most samples, any positive results in Screening must be verified for legal acceptability. Samples testing positive in Screening undergo additional confirmation.
For samples testing positive during Screening, further hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drug substances are separated from hair at lower concentrations than other methods such as urine or oral fluid tests, making hair drug analysis notably challenging.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques are used for confirming any positive Screening outcomes. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The full testing cycle from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed as "hair follicle tests," the assessment is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint James, NC - Hair testing provides a myriad of advantages over traditional urine assessments. It is renowned for its superior detection precision and reliability. While urine tests capture drug use over a shorter span, hair tests span a notable 90 days, offering a comprehensive glimpse into an individual's substance history.
Extended Detection Window in Saint James, NC - Hair follicle assessments in Saint James provide a broad window for detecting substance use, up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe supplies employers with thorough insights into an applicant's or employee's drug habits, enhancing decision-making regarding hiring or retention.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint James, NC - In Saint James, hair follicle drug tests significantly mitigate the risk of sample adulteration. This method delivers results that are trustworthy and nearly impossible to alter or falsify, ensuring credibility and peace of mind for all parties involved.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Saint James, NC - Our extensive network of testing centers guarantees convenient access to drug testing services. Whether in Saint James or elsewhere nationwide, our locations ensure swift, hassle-free testing experiences, maintaining efficiency and top-tier service quality.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint James, NC - The process for hair follicle testing in Saint James is straightforward and discreet. Each step, from ordering to receiving results, ensures user privacy and convenience, addressing any concerns regarding confidentiality and ease of engagement.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint James, NC - Our competitive pricing and swift processing times distinguish our services, offering excellent value. Businesses in Saint James, regardless of size, benefit from economical solutions paired with rapid result delivery, ensuring satisfaction and assurance.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint James, NC - Hair follicle drug tests in Saint James offer rapid and highly precise outcomes. This method excels in identifying substance consumption and stands out for its unparalleled accuracy. The advanced technology ensures swift analysis, enabling timely, dependable results that professionals can trust.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint James, NC - Utilizing hair follicle tests aids employers in ensuring adherence to workplace drug-free mandates. This practice not only lowers legal liabilities but also fosters a safe and secure work environment, leading to enhanced operations and trust within the company.
