Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol usage. Hair can capture a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug consumption by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When taken from the scalp region, hair can reflect up to around a 3-month period of alcohol and drug usage. Hair samples are easy to obtain, fairly resistant to tampering, and straightforward to send.
A 1.5-inch length of around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for testing and verification. For EtG, additional testing, and/or beyond 10-panel tests, 150mg of hair is advised. It's advisable to measure the hair sample on a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair can be collected. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to hair from the scalp. Body hair includes all other types such as facial, axillary, etc.
Process Overview
The four critical phases in the lab processing of a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is about the initial integration of a sample into the lab system, which entails ensuring the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data that an electronic chain of custody system may not have provided.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective means of ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to stand in court. Samples with a presumptive positive result in Screening need further confirmation.
If a sample is preliminarily positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from the hair at much lower concentrations than seen in other testing methods, such as urine or oral fluids, highlighting why hair drug screening is a more complex process.
Verification of any positive Screening results is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive outcomes are washed prior to confirmation as necessary. Each stage of the laboratory process from Accessioning through Confirmation undergoes scrutiny per the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets the accreditation standards of ISO / IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis typically pertains to the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New Petersburg, OH
Hair testing is a superior alternative due to its longer detection span, capturing a full substance history. Compared to traditional urine tests, hair tests offer unmatched detection accuracy and integrity.
This elevates its importance for comprehensive drug assessments.
Extended Detection Window in New Petersburg, OH
The hallmark of hair follicle testing is its advanced detection window, offering insights up to 90 days prior. This extended period is crucial for understanding a subject's full substance use history.
This gives deeper insights into applicants or employees' drug use backgrounds.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New Petersburg, OH
Hair follicle testing is lauded for its resistance to adulteration compared to other methods. This ensures the integrity and reliability of results.
Such methods fortify the credibility of the testing process, guaranteeing peace of mind.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New Petersburg, OH
Our testing facilities are situated nationwide, as well as locally in New Petersburg, making accessing services straightforward and stress-free.
This widespread availability ensures no area is left unserviced.
Simple, Confidential Process in New Petersburg, OH
The testing process is straightforward and confidential, focusing on privacy from ordering to results delivery.
This caters to concerns about confidentiality and ease of use, making the process smooth for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New Petersburg, OH
Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times set us apart, delivering both value and speed without compromising accuracy.
Companies, regardless of size, benefit from these economical yet efficient services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New Petersburg, OH
For those seeking precision, hair follicle drug testing is a superior choice in New Petersburg. Its advanced detection methods ensure fast and precise results, making it a trusted option.
Such testing methods help maintain stringent standards and trust.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New Petersburg, OH
Implementing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free policies. This reduces potential legal risks and enhances workplace safety.
These testing protocols safeguard companies against substance-related challenges.
