Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as an effective method in identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands capture biomarkers, providing an extensive timeline of substance use as the hair grows. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal drug or alcohol intake for a period of up to three months. This method is straightforward to execute, with minimal risk of tampering, and is easy to transport.
Collecting a 1.5-inch hair sample consisting of around 200 strands (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation procedures. For EtG, add-ons, or tests involving more than 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is preferable. Using a jeweler’s scale is advised for accurate measurement. When scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent volume of body hair may be used. References to head hair imply only scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system, comprising the validation of its sealing and shipping, the assignment of a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary supplementary data input absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as a preliminary rapid assessment for substance abuse. This step is an economical approach to exclude drug usage for the vast majority of specimens; however, a positive screen mandates confirmation for court admissibility. Presumptively positive specimens in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
In cases where Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations than with alternate methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug analysis.
A positive screening finding undergoes Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positives are cleansed prior to confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair categorization and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle located beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Alexander, ND? One major advantage is its superior detection accuracy. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair testing provides a longer window for identifying substance use, capturing a wider range of substances over time.
Reliability is another key factor. Hair tests are less prone to tampering and offer consistent results, making them ideal for stringent testing requirements. Their ability to detect historic drug use over several months outperforms the limited timeframe provided by urine tests.
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window in Alexander, ND, capturing drug use up to 90 days prior. This extensive timeframe is invaluable for employers seeking comprehensive substance use histories.
Employers appreciate the insight gained through such a detailed analysis, as it assists in making informed hiring decisions. The long detection period also supports ongoing assessments for workplace safety, offering more than just a snapshot of recent substance use.
In Alexander, ND, hair follicle testing is recognized for its tamper-resistant nature. This method dramatically reduces the likelihood of sample adulteration, ensuring authentic and reliable results in drug analysis.
The ability to withstand attempts at manipulation makes hair testing a trusted choice for organizations that demand high levels of accuracy. The integrity of the sample remains intact, providing indisputable evidence of an individual's substance use history.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient nationwide and local locations in Alexander, ND. With testing centers accessible throughout the country, you can easily find a site nearby for hassle-free testing services.
This extensive network ensures timely and convenient access to testing, allowing individuals and businesses to easily fulfill their drug testing needs without the stress of travel or excessive wait times.
In Alexander, ND, our drug testing process is both simple and confidential. Ordering, taking, and receiving results are designed to be straightforward, ensuring privacy and ease every step of the way.
Clients can trust that their information is protected throughout the process. This commitment to confidentiality and user-friendliness makes hair follicle testing accessible and comfortable for all individuals and organizations involved.
We offer affordable pricing and fast turnaround in Alexander, ND, providing excellent value for companies of all scales. Our cost-effective pricing ensures accessibility for various organizations, from small businesses to large corporations.
Quick turnaround times mean reduced waiting periods for results, promoting timely decision-making and enabling businesses to maintain productive operations. This combination of affordability and efficiency solidifies our standing as a leading provider.
In Alexander, ND, hair follicle drug testing ensures fast, accurate, and reliable results. This method is known for its precision in verifying substance use history effectively. The high degree of accuracy makes it a preferred choice for those seeking dependable outcomes in substance detection.
The speed at which results are obtained further distinguishes hair testing from other methods. It facilitates quick decision-making processes, helping organizations maintain efficient workflows without compromising on quality and reliability.
Employers in Alexander, ND, find compliance and peace of mind with hair follicle testing. This method helps in adhering to drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal risks and enhancing overall safety standards.
By implementing hair testing, companies can confidently enforce their substance use policies, ensuring a healthier work environment. This proactive approach not only safeguards the organization but also supports employee well-being and productivity.
