Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as an effective method, hair testing is used to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can offer a prolonged record of substances by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken close to the scalp, hair can provide a detection period of up to three months for substances. It's straightforward to collect, a bit challenging to tamper with, and convenient to send.
A 1.5-inch group of around 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil in size) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimum sample for analysis. For EtG, additional tests, or tests involving more than 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is suggested. We recommend weighing the sample with a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be accessible, a comparable amount of body hair can be collected. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The procedure for processing a drug test result in a lab includes these four main stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial entry of a sample into the lab's system. This step confirms the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns it a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any data entry not supplied by electronic custody systems.
Screening is a preliminary and quick assessment for common drugs. Although it serves as an economical method to eliminate drug presence in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to hold up legally. Any samples that screen as presumptively positive need further confirmation.
If a sample screens as presumptively positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. This stage involves extracting drugs at lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening a complex methodology.
Confirmation of a positive screening is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumed positive samples are washed before confirmation. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze strands rather than the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hopwood, PA
Choosing hair testing over the traditional urine test offers numerous advantages. While urine tests only detect recent drug use, hair tests provide an expanded timeframe, enhancing detection accuracy. Hair tests are more reliable in revealing consistent drug use patterns due to their longer detection windows.
Moreover, hair testing offers superior accuracy and reliability, making it the preferred choice for organizations with strict policies on substance use.
Extended Detection Window in Hopwood, PA
Hair follicle testing is exceptionally useful in detecting drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This feature provides employers with a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance history, beyond the limitations of traditional testing methods.
The extended detection capability makes hair testing a preferred choice for organizations seeking a thorough understanding of employee or applicant substance use patterns, resulting in better-informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hopwood, PA
One of the standout advantages of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. The collection process itself significantly reduces the likelihood of sample adulteration or substitution, providing results that are difficult to contest.
This method's integrity ensures that results remain trustworthy and valid, offering undeniable results that help maintain the accuracy and credibility of the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hopwood, PA
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide guarantees easy access to testing services. Whether in Hopwood or beyond, individuals can quickly access our services with minimal hassle.
Accessibility is key, and our widespread centers ensure that testing remains a straightforward, stress-free process, eliminating the inconvenience commonly associated with scheduling and traveling for tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hopwood, PA
The hair follicle testing process is not only straightforward but also ensures confidentiality. From ordering the test to collecting the sample and receiving results, every step prioritizes the privacy of individuals.
This focus on confidentiality and simplicity encourages participation and cooperation while eliminating concerns related to data privacy or complex procedures.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hopwood, PA
Our competitive pricing structures make hair follicle testing accessible for businesses of all sizes. Fast turnaround times further enhance value, ensuring that organizations receive timely results without financial strain.
Offering excellent value and efficiency, our services extend both peace of mind and financial viability, appropriate for any organization seeking thorough drug testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hopwood, PA
Hair follicle tests offer swift and precise outcomes, making them a highly reliable option. Their ability to detect substance use accurately ensures peace of mind for all parties involved. Their rapid processing time means that results can be delivered quickly without sacrificing reliability.
This method's accuracy lies in its ability to trace substance usage effectively, which is crucial for ensuring compliance and safety across various platforms, including workplaces and legal settings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hopwood, PA
Employers can ensure strict adherence to drug-free workplace policies by employing hair follicle testing. This contributes to minimizing legal risks and maximizing workplace safety, benefiting everyone involved.
The comprehensive testing process aids employers in establishing clear, enforceable policies, providing peace of mind knowing that their testing methods align with legal and safety standards.
