Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become a recognized method for detecting alcohol and drug usage. Hair captures a detailed timeline of drug and alcohol use by ensnaring biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol usage over an approximate 3-month period. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch portion of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly equal to the width of a #2 pencil) near the scalp equates to 100mg, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample weighing 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for precise measurement. If scalp hair isn't accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. 'Head hair' specifically refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test outcome in the lab encompasses four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary stage where a sample is introduced into a lab’s system. This step involves ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning an arbitrary Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing any additional data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a swift initial evaluation for potential drug misuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient method to discount drug use in most samples, confirmation of a positive screen is obligatory for it to be acceptable in court. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
When a sample appears positive in the Screening phase, extra hair is extracted from the primary sample for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are removed from hair at considerably low concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of conducting hair drug screening.
The Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positives undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is examined under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle itself under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Ephrata, PA
Hair follicle drug evaluations boast superiority over traditional urine analyses due to their comprehensive and extensive detection abilities. This method uncovers drug usage more accurately and remains dependable, providing a broader window of detection. Such benefits address the expectations of employers and entities requiring stringent monitoring.
Extended Detection Window in Ephrata, PA
Unlike shorter-term methods, hair follicle testing provides detailed insights over an extended duration, up to 90 days. This prolonged window of detection allows employers handling applicant or employee evaluations to gain an in-depth perspective on one's substance consumption history, enhancing decision-making in recruitment and ongoing employment.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ephrata, PA
Employing a hair follicle test significantly diminishes the possibility of sample tampering or manipulation. Its inherent design prevents adulteration, safeguarding the integrity of the results. This makes it a foolproof method for acquiring truthful and unquestionable information, pivotal for workplaces and other bodies demanding accurate data.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Centers and Local Sites in Ephrata, PA
The presence of our widespread testing facilities simplifies access to necessary evaluations, ensuring prompt and comfortable service. These centers are strategically located, making it effortless for individuals to attend tests without delays or obstructions, no matter their location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ephrata, PA
The procedure of ordering, partaking in, and acquiring results from hair follicle testing is straightforward while upholding confidentiality. This simplicity addresses all concerns regarding privacy, ensuring participants experience an untangled journey through testing while safeguarding their personal data.
Affordable Pricing and Rapid Turnaround in Ephrata, PA
Our flexible pricing plans, combined with swift result processing, offer exceptional value to businesses. This ensures that companies of various scales benefit from reliable analysis without incurring excessive costs, catering to the financial and operational needs of each client with fast-paced, high-standard testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Trustworthy Results in Ephrata, PA
Hair follicle drug testing is a streamlined approach, offering rapid and precise results. The accuracy supreme to this testing method ensures reliable detection of various substances, making it the preferred choice for those who require certainty in evaluations. With its impressive precision, hair testing addresses the demands of those who need swift, correct analyses.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ephrata, PA
Hair follicle testing aligns with workplace drug-free policies, boosting compliance while limiting legal exposure. Additionally, it enhances safety by validating non-substance use, providing employers with confidence in their workforce and workplace environment, whilst adhering to established substance regulations.
