Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as a robust method for detecting substance use. The hair encapsulates a long-term record of drugs and alcohol via biomarkers captured in the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair offers a detection period of up to roughly 90 days for substances. It's straightforward to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample size of 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample amount for both preliminary and confirmatory testing. For screenings involving EtG, additional substances, and/or panels exceeding 10 tests, a specimen weight of 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the samples. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be utilized. "Head hair" pertains exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" denotes all other hair types (including facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key steps in the lab processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, incorporating the sample into a lab's workflow. This process verifies the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial swift evaluation for substances. While Screening provides a economical method to eliminate drugs from the majority of specimens, a positive result requires validation to be court-admissible. Any samples flagged positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
For samples marked positive during Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than with other techniques (e.g., urine or saliva tests), and thus hair testing is considered the most challenging method to perform.
Any positive screening outcomes are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review per CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Russells Point, OH
In Russells Point, OH, hair follicle testing is increasingly preferred over urine tests, thanks to its superior detection accuracy. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests offer a longer detection window, making them more reliable for employers and legal authorities enforcing no-tolerance policies. Its credibility is unmatched, ensuring fairness and trust in testing outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Russells Point, OH
Employers in Russells Point, OH, favor hair follicle testing due to its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This comprehensive view allows them to assess an individual's substance use history effectively, aiding in making informed staffing decisions. Hair tests provide a thorough insight into an applicant or employee's past behavior.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Russells Point, OH
Hair follicle testing in Russells Point, OH, offers a tamper-resistant solution that minimizes the risk of sample adulteration. The collection process is observed, reducing the probability of altering results, thus providing reliable and unquestionable test outcomes that build trust and assurance for employers.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Russells Point, OH
Russells Point, OH, benefits from a wide network of testing centers, ensuring easy access to our hair follicle testing services. Our nationwide and local locations provide convenience, enabling individuals to undergo testing swiftly without the hassle, thus saving time and resources for all parties involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Russells Point, OH
The process of ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests in Russells Point, OH, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. This eases privacy concerns, ensuring that clients can secure their health information throughout each step with ease and confidence, protecting individual data integrity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Russells Point, OH
Russells Point, OH, businesses can count on affordable and swift hair follicle testing. We offer competitive pricing structures that align with different budgetary requirements, providing excellent value without compromising on speed or accuracy. Our quick turnaround times make the process targeted and efficient.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Russells Point, OH
When it comes to precision, hair follicle drug testing stands out in Russells Point, OH. This method not only delivers fast results but also ensures high accuracy in detecting substance use. Employers and organizations benefit from the quick turnaround time, providing a dependable solution for maintaining a drug-free environment.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Russells Point, OH
Employers in Russells Point, OH, achieve peace of mind and compliance by choosing hair follicle testing. This method not only upholds workplace drug-free policies but also mitigates legal risks associated with substance use. It enhances safety and complies with industry standards, fostering a secure working environment.