Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Everett, PA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is now widely recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers in the strands of growing hair, it offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug use. Collected near the scalp, hair can reveal usage over a period of up to three months for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.

A hair sample taken from about 200 strands, measuring 1.5 inches and comparable to a #2 pencil, provides 100mg of hair, which is the best sample size for screening and confirmation. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to measure the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, a equivalent weight of body hair may be used. Head hair refers exclusively to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of drug test results involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning means the initial submission of a sample into a laboratory's system. This step includes verifying that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing additional data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is an initial rapid check for drugs. While it is a cost-efficient way to rule out drug use for most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for court admissibility. Any sample that tests presumptively positive during Screening requires secondary confirmation.

If a sample is presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at concentrations much lower than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening more complicated to perform.

Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that test presumptively positive are washed before confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair accreditation as well as ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can track drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection period.
• Difficult to deceive: It is extremely difficult to manipulate a hair drug test, which enhances result accuracy.
• Provides historical insight: It can illustrate a pattern of drug use over time, not merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Recent use undetectable: It takes around 5-7 days for drugs to become visible in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than alternative drug testing methods.
• Result variations: Hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually involves the hair strand and not the hair follicle below the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Everett, PA lies in its unparalleled detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing assesses drug use over a longer period and is unaffected by short-term abstinence or adulteration, unlike urine tests. This extends the detection window significantly, offering a clearer picture than traditional methods.

Extended Detection Window

With an extended detection window lasting up to 90 days, hair follicle testing in Everett, PA allows for thorough scrutiny of an individual's drug history. This provides employers with an expanded understanding of a candidate’s substance use, greatly aiding in the screening process.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Everett, PA, hair follicle tests are noted for being a tamper-resistant testing method that minimizes the potential for sample adulteration. This reliability ensures a level of trust and accuracy that is difficult to contest, making it a preferred choice for stringent drug testing policies.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

With convenient nationwide testing locations, including those in Everett, PA, our centers guarantee easy and prompt access to testing services. This network alleviates the hassle often associated with drug testing logistics, facilitating a smooth process for all involved.

Simple, Confidential Process

Our testing service in Everett, PA offers a simple, confidential process, ensuring that ordering, taking, and receiving test results is both user-friendly and secure. We prioritize your privacy, addressing any apprehension related to confidentiality swiftly and efficiently.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Highlighting our affordable pricing and fast turnaround in Everett, PA, we provide great value for companies regardless of their size. Our competitive rates coupled with rapid results deliver priceless peace of mind to employers focused on cost-effectiveness and timely information.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

When it comes to delivering fast, accurate, and reliable results in Everett, PA, hair follicle drug tests stand out in precision and speed for detecting substance use. The high accuracy of hair tests offers employers confidence that they are getting the most reliable data regarding an individual's drug use, ensuring that the results are both timely and trustworthy.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Ensuring compliance and peace of mind for employers in Everett, PA, hair follicle testing aids in maintaining drug-free workplaces. It reduces legal risks and promotes safety by validating policy adherence through meticulous drug testing procedures.

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