Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly considered an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. The fibers of the developing hair strand encapsulate biomarkers, providing a prolonged record of substance use. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug consumption over an approximately 3-month timeframe. This method is easy to perform, not easily tampered with, and can be efficiently transported.
A specimen close to the scalp, about 1.5 inches long and containing roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil), will yield 100mg—the optimal quantity for analysis and verification. For testing involving EtG and panels exceeding 10, 150mg is advised. It's best to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, the equivalent volume of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' specifically means scalp hair, while 'body hair' includes all other hair types such as facial and axillary.
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of hair test results encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial processing by a lab's system. This step involves confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipment, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a rapid assessment for habitual drug use. Although cost-efficient for discarding drug use in most samples, court requires confirmation of a positive screen. Presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further verification.
When Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair from the original sample is used for Extraction. Drugs are removed from hair in this phase at lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair testing one of the most intricate methodologies.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to Confirmation, all presumptive positive samples are appropriately cleansed. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire process complies with both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair protocols and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair Testing vs. Urine Testing
In Cloverdale, OR, hair follicle tests offer clearer detection compared to urine tests. While urine tests provide a snapshot of recent use, hair analysis covers a broader history. Employers and professionals prefer hair tests for their superior accuracy, especially for ongoing substance monitoring, making them a reliable choice for comprehensive evaluations.
Extended Detection Period
Hair follicle testing in Cloverdale, OR, excels in identifying drug use over an extended timeline. Unlike other methods, hair testing uncovers substance use over a window of up to 90 days. This wider scope gives employers deeper insights into an individual's substance use, facilitating informed decisions based on comprehensive data.
Reducing Adulteration Risks
In Cloverdale, OR, hair follicle tests provide a tamper-resistant method for drug detection. By minimizing the chances of adulteration, these tests guarantee reliable results. Hair samples are collected under direct observation, significantly reducing any risk of manipulation, thus offering unwavering certainty in the test outcomes.
Convenient Testing Access
With nationwide coverage and local availability in Cloverdale, OR, our hair testing centers facilitate quick and straightforward access to testing services. Our network simplifies the process, ensuring that individuals and companies can receive timely and efficient testing without hassle, reinforcing usability and convenience.
Streamlined and Private
The hair follicle testing process in Cloverdale, OR is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From initiation to result interpretation, each step prioritizes client privacy and simplicity. This user-friendly approach addresses any privacy concerns, ensuring both accessibility and discretion throughout the testing procedure.
Cost-Effective and Quick
In Cloverdale, OR, competitive pricing and rapid turnaround define our hair testing services. We offer value-driven solutions, catering to businesses of all sizes with efficient programs that don't compromise on quality. These economical options align with budgetary needs while ensuring prompt and reliable outcomes.
Hair Follicle Drug Tests: Rapid Accuracy
In Cloverdale, OR, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and swiftness. These tests deliver fast results while maintaining high accuracy in identifying substance use. The advanced technology ensures dependable outcomes, giving individuals and organizations confidence in the test's effectiveness.
Ensuring Employer Compliance
Hair follicle testing supports a drug-free policy in Cloverdale, OR. By adopting this method, employers enhance compliance, curbing legal complications and promoting workplace safety. The reliability and comprehensive detection offered by hair tests provide employers peace of mind, ensuring a secure and compliant work environment.