Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for detecting substance use. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and drug consumption by trapping biomarkers in the strands. When hair is collected near the scalp, it offers a detection window of up to about 90 days for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easily transportable.
A 1.5-inch section containing around 200 strands of hair (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) from the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the recommended sample size for testing. For EtG, additional tests, and/or over 10-panel tests, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the hair sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar amount of body hair may be collected. "Head hair" should be interpreted as scalp hair only, whereas "body hair" encompasses other hair types (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary steps in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing phase of incorporating a sample into the lab's system. This step involves verifying the sample's secure sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data recording not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary check for substance abuse. It is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most samples; however, a positive screening necessitates confirmation to hold up in court. Any presumptively positive samples in Screening need additional confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in Screening, further hair is extracted from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. Drugs are isolated from hair at lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every presumptively positive sample undergoes washing before confirmation as required. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle under the scalp.
The Superiority of Hair Over Urine Testing in Yamhill, OR
Hair follicle testing in Yamhill, OR, proves to be superior to traditional urine tests by offering enhanced detection accuracy. Hair tests are less susceptible to tampering, making them more reliable. They outperform urine tests by offering a much longer detection window, allowing employers a more comprehensive understanding of a person's substance use history.
Long-Term Detection in Yamhill, OR
Hair follicle testing in Yamhill, OR, effectively identifies drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This prolonged window allows employers to gain a thorough overview of an individual's substance history. It aids in assessing long-term patterns of drug use, crucial for informed decision-making by employers.
Reduced Adulteration Risks in Yamhill, OR
In Yamhill, OR, hair follicle testing drastically minimizes the chances of sample tampering. It provides more reliable and indisputable results compared to other methods. This testing method safeguards the integrity of the sample, helping to ensure that the test results are trustworthy and accurate.
Convenient Testing in Yamhill, OR
Our widespread network of testing centers makes access to hair follicle tests hassle-free in Yamhill, OR. Whether you're near or far, our services ensure quick and easy testing availability, supporting your need for secure and accessible drug testing solutions.
Streamlined and Private in Yamhill, OR
Ordering, administering, and receiving results for hair follicle tests in Yamhill, OR, is straightforward and confidential. Protecting your privacy, our process is designed for ease of use, ensuring that you can manage drug testing without any stress or worry about privacy breaches.
Cost-Effective and Quick in Yamhill, OR
Competitive pricing and fast turnaround options make hair follicle testing in Yamhill, OR, a great value for all business sizes. We provide an affordable solution without compromising on quality or speed, guaranteeing excellent service and peace of mind.
Speed and Precision in Yamhill, OR
In Yamhill, OR, hair follicle drug tests offer unparalleled precision and swiftness. Their high accuracy levels in identifying substance use are complemented by rapid processing times, ensuring you get the results you need both quickly and reliably. This makes them an excellent choice for timely and dependable drug detection.
Compliance Assurance in Yamhill, OR
Adopting hair follicle testing in Yamhill, OR, supports employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. It reduces legal liabilities and promotes a safer working environment. Employers can rest assured that they are meeting regulatory requirements and protecting their workforce.