Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. Collected near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to approximately three months for these substances. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively secured against tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A segment of hair measuring 1.5 inches and containing about 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered the optimal sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be obtained. When we mention head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The sequence of laboratory steps when processing a drug test result consists of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial integration into a laboratory’s system. This stage ensures the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any remaining data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive outcome requires confirmation for it to be valid in a legal context. Samples deemed presumptively positive in Screening need further confirmation.
When a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations much lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is accomplished using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory work, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is comprehensively reviewed according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North Central Pittsburg, OK is clear due to its heightened detection abilities and accuracy. Unlike conventional urine tests, the hair follicle method uncovers drug use over a longer timeframe.
Employers benefit from the detailed substance history it provides, and its robust reliability outweighs the limitations of urine testing.
Extended Detection Window in North Central Pittsburg, OK highlights the unique advantage of hair follicle testing, which tracks substance use up to 90 days. This lengthened window is crucial for employers aiming to understand an individual’s drug history comprehensively.
Compared to other tests, this approach offers unparalleled insights over an extended period.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North Central Pittsburg, OK remarkably reduces sample tampering risks. Hair follicle tests deliver results with enhanced reliability and credibility, minimizing adulteration chances.
This testing method becomes essential for employers requiring trustworthy test outcomes and serves as an exceptional deterrent to dishonest practices.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in North Central Pittsburg, OK offer hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services. Thanks to a wide network of centers across the nation, testing becomes straightforward and efficient.
This convenience is paramount for individuals needing quick and straightforward testing solutions locally and beyond.
Simple, Confidential Process in North Central Pittsburg, OK ensures ease and discretion throughout the testing experience from order to result. Every step prioritizes user privacy, giving individuals confidence in their data's security.
The uncomplicated procedure aligns with personal needs, offering assurance and reliability in handling sensitive information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North Central Pittsburg, OK reinforce our commitment to delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. Our pricing strategy and quick return time provide unparalleled value.
Companies of all sizes benefit from the financial convenience and swift results aligned with their operational demands.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in North Central Pittsburg, OK thanks to the superior technology of hair follicle testing. Unlike traditional methods, this approach boasts high precision and fast assessment times, detecting substance use with exceptional accuracy.
Laboratories process samples efficiently, ensuring timely feedback while maintaining their strong reliability in identifying drug use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North Central Pittsburg, OK with hair follicle testing ensures strict adherence to workplace drug policies. By mitigating legal issues and enhancing safety, this testing method provides companies with peace of mind.
It reassures employers that their zero-tolerance policies are respected and upheld through reliable validation.