Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Testing hair has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive history of alcohol and drugs by retaining biomarkers within its growing strands. When gathered near the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol use over a span of up to three months. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and transportation is uncomplicated.
A hair segment of 1.5 inches with nearly 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil’s width) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for analysis. For EtG, supplementary checks, and examinations beyond ten panels, a recommendation of 150mg of hair applies. It is best to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair is acceptable. When discussing head hair, it specifically means scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types, such as facial and underarm hair.
Process Overview
The drug testing process in a lab entails four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary step in introducing a sample to the lab's system. This phase ensures the sample is properly sealed and transported, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and closes any data gaps not covered by the electronic chain of custody.
Screening conducts an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although cost-efficient for excluding drug usage in most samples, any positive screenings must be verified to stand in court. Samples indicating a preliminary positive in screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
In the Screening phase, should there be a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the originally collected sample for the Extraction phase. Drugs are isolated at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine, saliva), making hair drug testing a complex process.
Confirmation follows any positive screening via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, each positive sample undergoes washing as required. The lab process covering Accessioning to Confirmation is assessed under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation, alongside accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests," the procedure actually examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Kent, OR holds significant advantages over traditional urine tests. The superior detection accuracy of hair tests ensures the identification of drug usage spanning an extended timeframe, providing a detailed view of substance habits. In contrast with urine analyses, hair testing demonstrates greater precision and reliability, making it the preferred choice for those seeking thorough and dependable substance screening.
Hair follicle testing in Kent, OR affords a notably longer detection window, identifying drug use up to 90 days prior. This extensive timeframe enables employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's substance history. Offering visibility into long-term drug habits, hair testing is a critical tool for informed decision-making in the hiring and employment process.
In Kent, OR, hair follicle testing sets a standard in minimizing the risks of sample tampering, yielding reliable and unquestionable results. The robust collection process significantly curtails the chances of adulteration, ensuring that the results are trustworthy. This tamper-resistant method provides a level of integrity and assurance that is unrivaled by other testing formats, making it a premier choice for accuracy and reliability.
Our nationwide testing centers, including those in Kent, OR, offer unparalleled convenience, ensuring seamless access to our services. With numerous locations available, individuals and organizations benefit from swift, hassle-free testing experiences. The extensive network of facilities underlines our commitment to offering reliable and accessible testing solutions across all regions.
In Kent, OR, the process for hair follicle testing is both simple and confidential. From ordering to testing and receiving results, every step is designed to protect privacy, ensuring peace of mind. This straightforward approach not only preserves confidentiality but also guarantees ease of use for all participants, addressing any concerns related to openness and security.
Our services in Kent, OR offer affordable pricing and rapid turnaround, delivering exceptional value to organizations of all scales. Competitive rates paired with quick result availability ensure clients receive both quality and timely access to necessary information. This cost-effective approach reinforces our dedication to serving our clientele efficiently and transparently.
The precision and rapidity of hair follicle drug tests make them a standout choice in Kent, OR. These tests ensure meticulous accuracy in identifying substance use, allowing individuals and organizations to obtain reliable results promptly. Unlike traditional methods, the advanced nature of hair testing allows for swift and dependable detection, offering clarity and reassurance for all involved stakeholders.
Employers in Kent, OR are increasingly turning to hair follicle testing to uphold compliance and ensure peace of mind. This testing method aligns with stringent workplace drug-free policies, reducing potential legal liabilities and fostering a safe working environment. By adhering to rigorous testing standards, organizations can mitigate risks effectively while promoting a culture of safety and well-being.
