Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for detecting alcohol and drug use. The hair strand captures long-term alcohol and drug history by entrapping biomarkers within the fibers. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal alcohol and drug usage for about three months. The hair is easy to gather, challenging to tamper with, and simple to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the perfect volume for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels over 10, it's recommended to collect 150mg. It's advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't an option, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair includes other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
Processing drug test results in a lab consists of four major steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step, logging a sample into the lab system. The process checks that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completes any remaining data entry not managed by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening offers a preliminary evaluation for drugs. While cost-efficient for most samples to dismiss drug use, a positive finding must be verified for legal acceptability. Any prescriptive positive results in Screening demand secondary verification.
If a Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair from the original sample is utilized for Extraction. This process extracts drugs from hair at significantly lower levels compared to methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug screening the most complex methodology.
Positive results from the Screening phase require Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Before Confirmation, positive samples are cleaned as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is evaluated under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," the test actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Woodworth, ND
When contrasting hair testing with urine tests, the former stands out with superior accuracy and dependability. Hair follicle examinations reveal longer-term substance use, unlike urine tests, which often only capture recent activity. This expansive detection window provides employers and institutions a truer insight into an individual's history.
Extended Detection Window in Woodworth, ND
Hair follicle testing excels by offering a detection window of up to 90 days, significantly exceeding typical urine test timelines. This extended period grants employers a thorough perspective on potential drug use, helping monitor applicants or existing employees. It provides assurance by delivering comprehensive drug history insights.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Woodworth, ND
One of the key advantages of hair follicle drug tests is their robustness against tampering. The test procedure minimizes risks associated with sample adulteration, offering results that are both dependable and foolproof. This ensures that the integrity of the testing process remains intact, guaranteeing accurate findings.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Woodworth, ND
With an expansive network of testing centers nationwide, our services ensure accessibility and ease for everyone in need. Local options in Woodworth, ND are no exception, providing fast and seamless testing services. This convenience makes adhering to drug policies efficient and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Woodworth, ND
Our hair follicle testing procedure prioritizes simplicity and privacy, ensuring a hassle-free experience. From ordering to result reception, each step is designed to be straightforward, safeguarding confidentiality. This approach addresses privacy concerns while ensuring efficient processing, making it user-friendly and secure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Woodworth, ND
Competitive pricing and swift turnaround define our hair follicle testing services. Businesses of all sizes benefit from the excellent value offered, enjoying cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality or speed. This efficiency enhances value, making our services the ideal choice for comprehensive drug testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Woodworth, ND
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision, seamlessly detecting substances with a high degree of accuracy. This method ensures speedy and trustworthy results, making it a favorite choice for employers and medical professionals alike. The reliable nature of hair testing provides confidence in the findings, allowing for informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Woodworth, ND
Employers find peace of mind in hair follicle testing's ability to align with drug-free workplace policies. By reducing legal risks and bolstering workplace safety, this testing approach is hard to beat. Assurance of compliance enables companies to focus on their core goals, with fewer distractions from workplace issues.