Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is regarded as a powerful method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and narcotics by embedding biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and narcotics. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
An ideal sample for testing and validating consists of a 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil), yielding 100mg of hair. For EtG, supplementary analyses, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, a specimen amounting to 150mg is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is advised. If scalp hair isn’t an option, a comparable quantity of body hair might suffice. Note that 'head hair' pertains exclusively to scalp hair. Conversely, 'body hair' encompasses facial, axillary, and other types.
Process Overview
There are four fundamental phases in the laboratory processing of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of integrating a sample into a lab's system. This includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and delivered, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry though not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.
The Screening phase is an initial rapid evaluation for illicit substances. While Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug presence in most samples, a positive finding necessitates further Confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Samples that show presumptive positives in Screening need additional verification.
In instances of a presumptive positive in Screening, more of the initial sample is extracted and processed for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thereby making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Any positive Screening outcome is confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive are cleansed before Confirmation as needed. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment itself examines the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hitchcock, OK
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the former showcases superior detection accuracy and reliability. In Hitchcock, OK, the advanced nature of hair tests highlights their advantage, providing extensive insights into drug use over longer periods than urine samples.
Extended Detection Window in Hitchcock, OK
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, capturing drug use history for up to 90 days. This capability empowers employers in Hitchcock, OK, to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s substance history, covering a wider timeframe than other testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hitchcock, OK
Hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the risk of sample tampering, delivering reliable outcomes. These tests are designed to be tamper-resistant, thereby providing unquestioned results, a crucial criterion for businesses in Hitchcock, OK who seek consistent accuracy.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hitchcock, OK
With our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, including Hitchcock, OK, accessing drug testing services becomes straightforward. These convenient locations guarantee quick, effortless, and stress-free testing experiences for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hitchcock, OK
The process of ordering, administering, and receiving results for hair follicle tests is simple and confidential in Hitchcock, OK. This ease ensures concerns about privacy and user-friendliness are adequately addressed, enhancing user experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hitchcock, OK
We offer competitive pricing and prompt turnaround times for hair follicle tests in Hitchcock, OK. This combination of affordability and efficiency provides excellent value and reassurance for businesses, regardless of size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hitchcock, OK
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision, producing quick results while accurately identifying substance use. In Hitchcock, OK, our testing centers deliver high accuracy, ensuring individuals and businesses receive trustworthy information about drug usage promptly.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hitchcock, OK
Employers in Hitchcock, OK, can achieve peace of mind with hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal risks and bolsters workplace safety, proving indispensable for organizations prioritizing drug-free operations.
