Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for the identification of drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures an extended timeline of alcohol and drug exposure by securing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When obtained near the scalp, hair has the ability to present up to approximately three months' worth of detection capability for alcohol and drugs. Obtaining hair samples is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches from around 200 strands of hair (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional panels, or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is suggested. It is advised to measure the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair are solely concerning scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure involved in drug test result processing consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the preliminary integration of a specimen into a lab’s system. This step includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and sent, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplemental data entry omitted by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for the presence of abused substances. While Screening is an economical method to negate drug use in the bulk of samples, any positive screen must undergo confirmation to hold up in legal proceedings. Samples presumed positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. Here, substances are isolated from hair at a concentration far lower than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug testing is one of the most intricate methodologies to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All presumptively positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently named "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Page, ND
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests by offering superior accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, which provide a shorter detection window, hair analysis can reveal drug use over an extended period, making it a preferred choice for those seeking thorough evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Page, ND
Offering a significantly longer detection period, hair follicle testing uncovers drug usage extending up to 90 days. This comprehensive insight allows employers to better assess an applicant or employee's substance history, providing a clearer view of long-term habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Page, ND
Designed to minimize sample tampering risks, hair follicle testing delivers dependable and indisputable outcomes. Its robustness against adulteration ensures that the results remain credible and trustworthy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Page, ND
Benefit from the ease of our widespread testing facilities, offering quick, straightforward access to drug testing services nationwide. Local centers in Page, ND ensure you receive hassle-free testing whenever needed.
Simple, Confidential Process in Page, ND
Engage in a straightforward and discreet method for ordering, conducting, and obtaining test results. This approach prioritizes ease-of-use and privacy, addressing any concerns for individuals or employers.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Page, ND
Take advantage of competitive pricing structures and prompt processing times. Offering excellent value, our services assure companies of all sizes their peace of mind with swift and economical solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Page, ND
Experience the benefit of swifter, more precise outcomes with hair follicle drug testing in Page, ND. Recognized for its high accuracy, this method excels at identifying substance use efficiently. Detections are faster, allowing employers and individuals alike to trust the reliability of the test results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Page, ND
Employers utilizing hair follicle tests benefit from enhanced compliance with workplace drug-free policies. It helps reduce legal risks and fosters a safer working environment, giving peace of mind with reliable results.
