Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a strong method for detecting alcohol and drug use. Hair offers an extended record of alcohol and drug exposure by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair allows for a detection period of up to 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect hair, challenging to adulterate, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair may be collected. When mentioning head hair, it refers specifically to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedures for processing a drug test result encompass four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial processing of a sample upon entry into the laboratory system. This step mandates verifying the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data not recorded by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves conducting a preliminary rapid test to identify drugs of abuse. While Screening offers a cost-effective approach to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive result needs confirmation to qualify as admissible evidence in court. Samples indicating a presumptive positive in Screening require secondary confirmation.
If Screening suggests a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. During this stage, drugs are extracted from the hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which contributes to hair drug screening being the most challenging methodology.
Confirmation of a positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed in accordance with the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Indianola, OK In Indianola, OK, hair follicle testing has emerged as a superior option compared to urine tests. Its extended detection window and increased accuracy make it ideal for more thorough assessments. Unlike urine tests, hair testing can reveal substance use over several months, providing a more reliable picture of an individual's drug history. This consistency makes hair tests invaluable for effective screening.
Extended Detection Window in Indianola, OK With its up to 90-day detection period, hair follicle testing provides a more comprehensive overview of drug use. For employers in Indianola, OK, this method ensures a thorough grasp of an individual's history, going beyond recent activities. Such extended coverage is crucial in evaluating long-term substance patterns, delivering deeper insights than short-term tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Indianola, OK The resilience of hair follicle tests in resisting tampering makes them incredibly trustworthy. In Indianola, OK, the strict collection process minimizes the risk of adulteration, ensuring results that are unquestionable. This level of security protects the integrity of the testing process, establishing hair testing as a cornerstone for accurate evaluation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Indianola, OK Our expansive network of testing centers offers convenience to those in Indianola, OK, and beyond. With nationwide coverage, accessing drug screening services is seamless and straightforward. This ease of access eliminates barriers and ensures prompt testing services, making it a hassle-free experience for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in Indianola, OK The process for hair follicle testing in Indianola, OK, is designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is straightforward, ensuring privacy and peace of mind. This user-friendly approach prioritizes the individual's experience, maintaining discretion while providing crucial results.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Indianola, OK Combining competitive pricing with rapid turnaround times, hair follicle testing in Indianola, OK, offers great value. Economical rates make it an attractive choice for organizations of any size. The efficiency in delivering results ensures that companies receive timely information, balancing cost with exemplary service quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Indianola, OK Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and speed in Indianola, OK. Its high accuracy ensures the reliable detection of substances, making it the preferred choice for quick results. Employers benefit from its fast processing times without sacrificing the precision needed for critical decision-making. As such, this method stands out for both speed and reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Indianola, OK Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in Indianola, OK, in upholding drug-free workplace policies. Its reliability diminishes legal risks and enhances safety standards. By choosing this testing method, companies demonstrate their commitment to compliance and safety, fostering a secure work environment and peace of mind for all involved.
