Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now viewed as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair, hence offering an extended history of alcohol and drug usage. When sourced near the scalp, a hair specimen can reveal drug and alcohol usage within an approximate 3-month timeframe. The collection process is straightforward; hair samples are somewhat resistant to tampering and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg are suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is advisable for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. The term "head hair" strictly refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing drug test outcomes incorporates four fundamental steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During the Accessioning phase, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system, which involves ensuring the sample was properly sealed and sent, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handling any additional data input absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as a preliminary evaluation for substance abuse detection. Although cost-effective, a positive result in Screening must undergo further review to stand in legal proceedings. Presumptive positives identified in Screening necessitate confirmation.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair from the initial sample is extracted for analysis. In Extraction, drugs are obtained from hair at a lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluids), making hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Confirmation of positive screenings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Referred to as "hair follicle tests", these tests actually assess the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp.
In Whitnel, NC, hair follicle testing stands out as a superior alternative to urine testing. Why? It provides a more comprehensive timeline of drug use, making it a valuable tool for managers and judicial systems.
Beyond its extended detection window, hair testing offers greater accuracy and reliability unmatched by urine samples. Employers and professionals seeking certainty should consider this method.
One significant advantage of hair follicle testing in Whitnel, NC is its extended detection capability. Able to capture a drug-use history of up to 90 days, it provides a fuller picture of an individual's consumption habits.
This longer timeframe allows employers deeper insights into an applicant's substance patterns, helping in making more informed decisions about hiring or continued employment.
Hair follicle testing is notably tamper-resistant, a key benefit for those needing trustworthy results in Whitnel, NC. The integrity of the sample is safeguarded, significantly reducing chances of adulteration.
This reliability instills confidence for employers and legal bodies that their results are precise and trustworthy, ensuring a secure and rigorous screening process.
Accredited Drug Testing features nationwide centers accommodating individuals across the country, including in Whitnel, NC. This ensures a seamless, hassle-free testing experience.
The convenience of having both national and local testing sites means individuals have quick access to essential services without any unnecessary delay.
We ensure a simple and confidential process when it comes to ordering, executing, and obtaining results in Whitnel, NC. You can trust us with your privacy concerns.
An uncomplicated procedure, from beginning to end, guarantees that our clients receive their results without unnecessary worry, making the experience user-friendly.
Hair follicle drug testing in Whitnel, NC is both affordable and quick, with competitive pricing that offers excellent value for businesses of all sizes.
Our fast turnaround times mean you won't be left waiting long for results, further ensuring that you remain informed and confident with your testing decisions.
Fast, accurate, and reliable outcomes make hair follicle drug tests an ideal choice in Whitnel, NC. The precision these tests offer in identifying substance use is unparalleled, ensuring the integrity of the results.
Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, hair testing provides rapid and trustworthy outcomes. Its efficiency is especially beneficial for employers seeking to maintain a drug-free workplace environment.
The use of hair follicle drug tests guarantees compliance with drug-free workplace initiatives, bringing peace of mind to employers in Whitnel, NC. This method significantly reduces the risk of breaching policies.
By ensuring a strict adherence to regulations, companies can enjoy reduced legal risks and promote a safer, healthier working environment for their staff and clients.
