Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The analysis of hair has emerged as an effective method for identifying the intake of drugs and alcohol. Hair acts as a repository for extended drug use history, capturing biomarkers within its strands as they grow. If hair samples are obtained near the scalp, they can potentially provide a detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) when taken from the scalp offers approximately 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for testing. For EtG enhancements or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is preferable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. The term "head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair, while "body hair" corresponds to all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test results involves four essential stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing to be integrated into the laboratory system. This involves confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. Although Screening is a budget-friendly approach to exclude drug consumption in most samples, a positive outcome requires further confirmation to be accepted legally. Samples that yield a presumptive positive result necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample result as presumptively positive in the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction stage. Here, substances are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), making hair drug analysis the most challenging method to conduct.
Confirmation of any initial positive result is achieved using techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are subjected to a pre-confirmation wash if necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," these tests examine the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Marguerite, PA
In Marguerite, PA, hair follicle tests offer a distinct advantage over traditional urine samples. One main edge is their superior detection accuracy and reliability. Where urine tests might miss certain detections, hair testing provides a comprehensive, long-term view of substance use, minimizing false negatives and ensuring dependable results.
Extended Detection Window in Marguerite, PA
One of the standout features of hair follicle drug testing is its extended detection period, which can span up to 90 days. In Marguerite, this provides employers with a thorough snapshot of a person's substance use history, ensuring a more informed decision-making process when evaluating potential hires or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Marguerite, PA
In Marguerite, hair follicle drug tests are famed for their resistance to tampering. Unlike other testing methods, the collection and analysis process for hair samples significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, offering undeniable and trustworthy results to stakeholders, ensuring confidence in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Marguerite, PA
Accredited Drug Testing provides widespread access to its services with numerous testing centers nationwide, including locales in Marguerite, PA. Our convenient locations empower individuals and businesses to access reliable testing services without unnecessary delay or travel, making the process both efficient and accessible.
Simple, Confidential Process in Marguerite, PA
The procedure for hair follicle testing in Marguerite is designed to be both straightforward and discreet. From ordering to test taking and receiving results, each step respects privacy while maintaining simplicity, ensuring users of our services feel comfortable and assured throughout the entire process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Marguerite, PA
Marguerite businesses can capitalize on our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround for drug testing services. Accredited Drug Testing promises exceptional value while ensuring quick response times, allowing companies of any size to achieve peace of mind without stretching their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Marguerite, PA
Hair follicle drug testing in Marguerite offers unparalleled precision and speed. These tests are lauded for their high accuracy, swiftly identifying substance use with minimal waiting time. The state-of-the-art technology involved ensures that every strand analyzed provides reliable results, reassuring employers and individuals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marguerite, PA
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Marguerite can offer employers significant peace of mind. This method ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, potentially lowering legal liabilities. By maintaining the integrity of the work environment, companies can focus on growth and productivity while knowing they're compliant with necessary regulations.
