Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as a formidable instrument, hair testing effectively uncovers drug and alcohol consumption. This method captures biomarkers within the hair strand fibers, offering a prolonged history of alcohol and drug usage. When gathered near the scalp, hair testing delivers up to an approximate three-month window for detecting alcohol and other drugs. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and transport is convenient.
A 1.5-inch hair sample, about 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil), closest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair—the perfect sample for assessment and verification. For EtG, additional tests, or testing above 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the specimen using a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair is suitable. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning initiates with integrating the sample into the lab system. This involves ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any further data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening initiates a swift and preliminary examination for substance misuse. While Screening effectively rules out drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be deemed court-admissible. Samples with presumptively positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
For samples with preliminary positive findings during Screening, additional hair is obtained from the original specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair in significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid). This makes hair drug screening one of the most complex methodologies to execute.
Positive screening results undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and meets ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lostine, OR
One of the primary benefits of hair testing over traditional urine tests is its superior detection accuracy. Hair tests can identify drug use over a longer period, thus providing a more comprehensive history. While urine tests are useful for recent drug use, hair tests are reliable for checking consistent use over time. This method enhances reliability and accuracy for employers.
Extended Detection Window in Lostine, OR
Hair follicle drug testing offers the advantage of detecting drug use over a significantly extended period—up to 90 days. This wider detection window gives employers a comprehensive view of an applicant's or employee's substance use history, allowing for more informed hiring and monitoring decisions. It paints a fuller picture of long-term habits rather than short-term behaviors.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lostine, OR
Hair follicle tests are known for their robustness against tampering, reducing risks related to sample adulteration. The methodology ensures that the results obtained are reliable and unquestionable, setting a standard of trust and integrity in drug testing practices. The likelihood of cheating these tests is significantly reduced, providing confidence in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lostine, OR
With a network of testing centers spread nationwide, obtaining a hair follicle drug test becomes a hassle-free experience in Lostine, OR. The convenience of accessible locations means that testing is both quick and easy, accommodating busy schedules. This national reach ensures anyone can access testing services without significant travel or inconvenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lostine, OR
The process for conducting a hair follicle drug test is simple and confidential, ensuring privacy throughout. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, each step is designed to be straightforward, protecting individuals' private information. This ensures ease of use while maintaining the confidentiality of personal data and outcomes.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lostine, OR
We provide competitive pricing structures alongside fast turnaround times for hair follicle drug tests. Our swift processing doesn't compromise on accuracy, delivering excellent value for companies of any size. Affordable options make it feasible for organizations to implement comprehensive drug testing without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lostine, OR
Hair follicle tests deliver fast and accurate results, making them an ideal choice for those needing reliable drug testing. This method is highly precise in detecting substance use, ensuring that test results can be trusted. The rapid processing time means that results are available quickly, aiding in swift decision-making processes for employers or legal requirements.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lostine, OR
Employers can ensure compliance with drug-free workplace policies through hair follicle testing. This method reduces legal risks associated with drug use and enhances workplace safety by offering accurate and comprehensive results. The use of such tests aligns with zero-tolerance policies and provides peace of mind regarding an employee's adherence to company standards.
