Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective means for identifying alcohol and drug use. By embedding biomarkers within the fibers of hair strands as they grow, hair offers a long-term history of substance use. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection window of nearly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It's straightforward to collect, moderately hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (resembling the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield around 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for tests. For EtG, additional tests, or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not an option, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we are specifically referring to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair categories (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the lab analysis of a drug test result: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first stage, involving the entry of a sample into the lab's system. This step includes ensuring the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not available electronically in a chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for substance abuse. Although efficient for eliminating drug usage in most cases, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Any samples that are initially flagged positive during Screening must undergo further confirmation.
If a specimen shows a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and then prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis one of the most challenging procedures.
Confirmation of any positive Screening results is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, any positive samples undergo washing as necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside accreditation to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often termed "hair follicle tests", the examination actually scrutinizes the hair strand, not the subcutaneous hair follicle
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine testing in Scottsburg, OR, the former shines due to its superior detection precision. Hair tests offer a more reliable method, detecting drug use with greater accuracy. This makes them an excellent choice for ensuring workplace integrity and compliance.
Hair follicle tests in Scottsburg, OR provide an unparalleled detection window that extends up to 90 days. Employers gain comprehensive insights into an individual's substance history. This extensive period surpasses shorter-term tests, offering a broader view of potential substance use.
In Scottsburg, OR, hair follicle tests significantly mitigate the possibility of sample tampering, ensuring authentic results. The stringent collection process protects the test's integrity, making it a secure and trustworthy testing option that safeguards against adulteration.
Our extensive network of testing centers, including Scottsburg, OR, ensures convenient access to drug testing services nationwide. Quick and straightforward service is paired with numerous locations, allowing for hassle-free testing wherever needed, ensuring clients' ease
The process of hair follicle testing in Scottsburg, OR, is both simple and confidential. Clients experience straightforward ordering, sampling, and result retrieval. Privacy concerns are alleviated thanks to our discreet processes, emphasizing easy and private use.
Accredited Drug Testing provides competitive prices in Scottsburg, OR, alongside fast turnaround times. These affordable rates cater to businesses of all sizes, ensuring excellent value and reliable service. The swift processing times guarantee efficiency and satisfaction.
In Scottsburg, OR, hair follicle drug tests are highlighted for their swift and precise nature. These tests boast unmatched accuracy when uncovering substance use. Accuracy and speed ensure clients receive prompt feedback, supporting informed decisions. Their reliability is indispensable.
By employing hair follicle testing in Scottsburg, OR, businesses can align with drug-free workplace policies. This proactive approach diminishes legal concerns while enhancing safety, giving employers a peace of mind and compliance confidence, fostering a secure work environment.
