Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug intake, capturing biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it offers an approximate 90-day detection window for alcohol and drugs. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
By collecting a 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (comparable in thickness to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, one can gather 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both initial testing and subsequent confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding ten, a 150mg specimen is advisable. The use of a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair may be used. When addressing head hair, it refers exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other types such as facial or axillary hair.
Process Overview
The drug testing laboratory procedure comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step where a sample undergoes initial processing within a laboratory system. Steps include confirmation of the sample’s proper sealing and shipment, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) randomly, and completing any necessary data entry that might not be captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for the presence of drugs. Though Screening is a cost-efficient way to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation to be viable in legal scenarios. Samples testing positive in Screening must undergo further confirmation.
Should a sample be marked presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair from the original sample is prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair in concentrations significantly lower than alternative methods (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening as a methodology.
Positive findings from Screening are validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positive results undergo washing before confirmation as deemed necessary. The laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although these are often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Helix, OR, hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over conventional urine tests. Enhanced Accuracy is a significant benefit, with hair tests being less susceptible to tampering. The Superior Detection capability extends to a broader range of substances, providing a clearer picture of an individual's history. This makes hair testing a more Reliable Option for long-term assessments.
Helix, OR benefits from hair follicle testing's Extended Detection Window. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests trace drug use over a 90-day period, offering a thorough overview of an individual's substance habits. This long-term view equips employers with valuable insights into an employee's history, aiding in making informed and strategic staffing decisions.
The reliability of hair follicle testing in Helix, OR is unmatched due to its Tamper-Resistant Nature. Unlike urine samples, hair tests are much harder to alter or replace, ensuring Authentic Results. This assurance protects against fraud, providing employers with peace of mind during the screening process and making results unquestionable.
In Helix, OR, the convenience of Accredited Drug Testing's Nationwide and Local Centers is unparalleled. With Easily Accessible Locations, individuals can undergo testing with minimal hassle. This network ensures quick and efficient service, making the process straightforward and stress-free, no matter where you are situated.
Helix, OR patrons appreciate the Simple and Confidential Process of hair follicle testing. The streamlined procedure—from ordering to obtaining results—emphasizes User Privacy and ease of use. Clients can rest assured their information remains secure, navigating the process with confidence and without concerns for confidentiality breaches.
Companies in Helix, OR benefit from Affordable Pricing and Rapid Turnaround with Accredited Drug Testing. Our competitive rates are designed to suit businesses of all sizes, without compromising on quality. Fast processing times ensure efficient service delivery, providing excellent value and peace of mind during each testing procedure.
Helix, OR values precision, and hair follicle tests deliver fast, accurate results. Their High Precision enables precise substance detection, minimizing false positives and negatives. Efficient Processing ensures quick turnaround times, facilitating timely decision-making. This combination of speed and accuracy makes hair testing indispensable for those requiring assured reliability.
Employers in Helix, OR find assurance in the Compliance and Peace of Mind offered by hair follicle testing. This method supports adherence to Workplace Drug-Free Policies, reducing the risk of legal complications. By ensuring a safe, compliant work environment, companies can focus on productivity and safety with the comfort of reliable testing.
