Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By trapping biomarkers within the hair's growing fibers, hair delivers an extended account of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug use for roughly three months. It is straightforward to gather, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's width) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, the optimal quantity for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests surpassing 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale is suggested to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is not present, a comparable volume of body hair can be used. References to head hair strictly mean scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing for drug test results comprises four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into a laboratory system. This step checks if the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any additional information not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary check for drug abuse indicators. While Screening is a cost-saving method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screening must be validated for it to be legally acceptable. Any samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening need further confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive result, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies.
To confirm any positive screening outcomes, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used. Presumptively positive samples are cleansed before the confirmation process if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Wins Over Urine Tests in East Freedom, PA
Comparing hair and urine testing reveals the superior detection and reliability of hair tests. Hair testing offers a longer detection period, making it a more effective method against the traditionally used urine tests. Its accuracy in identifying drug use over extended periods makes it a vital testing method.
Essential Benefits of Extended Detection Windows in East Freedom, PA
One of the primary advantages of hair follicle testing is its ability to identify drug use over an extended timeframe—up to 90 days. This comprehensive approach provides employers with a detailed insight into an employee or applicant's substance use history, ensuring informed decision-making.
Securing Integrity with Tamper-Resistant Methods in East Freedom, PA
Hair follicle tests minimize tampering risks, guaranteeing reliable and unquestionable outcomes. This testing approach fortifies the integrity of results, offering peace of mind to all stakeholders.
Effortless Access Through Convenient Locations in East Freedom, PA
Capitalize on our convenient nationwide and local testing centers to access services with ease. These strategically positioned locations ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for drug testing.
A Streamlined, Confidential Process in East Freedom, PA
The process for ordering, undergoing, and receiving drug testing results is simple and private. This ensures that concerns over privacy and ease of use are effectively catered to, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Results in East Freedom, PA
Our testing services boast not only reasonable pricing but also swift turnaround times. This delivers excellent value and peace of mind to companies, no matter their size, affirming our cost-effective solutions.
Fast and Accurate Testing in East Freedom, PA
Our hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and rapid results. By accurately detecting substance use, they provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual's history. This reliability ensures that our testing remains a preferred choice for those seeking quick and definitive results.
Ensuring Employer Compliance and Peace of Mind in East Freedom, PA
Utilizing hair follicle tests aids employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free policies. This testing method lowers legal risks and enhances safety in the workplace, providing assurance and security in adherence to defined policies.
