Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Monroeton, PA

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a longitudinal record of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, it can offer as much as a three-month detection timeframe for both alcohol and other drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, difficult to alter, and simple to transport.

A sample of hair measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of approximately 200 strands (similar in circumference to a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding ten, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's best to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. Should scalp hair be lacking, an identical quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The process of lab testing for drugs incorporates four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning involves the first integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This consists of confirming the sample was sealed and transported appropriately, creating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any data entry missing in an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening consists of a primary quick analysis for drugs of abuse. Although Screening provides an economical way to discount drug use in most cases, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal validity. Any samples presumptively positive in Screening must undergo further confirmation.

If a sample indicates a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the initial batch and readied for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at much reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing particularly challenging to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating presumptive positivity are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug consumption for as long as 90 days, unlike urine tests, which have shorter detection periods.
• Challenging to manipulate: It is notably hard to deceive a hair drug test, which enhances the accuracy of the results.
• Offers temporal data: It can illustrate drug consumption patterns over a duration, not merely recent activity.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: Drugs require approximately 5-7 days to manifest in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than other testing methods.
• Result variability: Aspects like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on analyzing the hair strand rather than the follicle under the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Monroeton, PA

• Hair testing offers superior accuracy compared to conventional urine tests, allowing for a more comprehensive detection of substances.

The reliability and longer detection window of hair tests provide unbeatable advantages. Its efficiency far exceeds standard urine tests, making it a preferred choice for many institutions.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Monroeton, PA

• Hair follicle tests detect drug use over extended periods, up to 90 days, providing a detailed insight into a person's substance history.

Employers can gain a complete perspective on an employee's or applicant's past drug use with hair testing. This extended detection window is beneficial for ensuring a safer workplace.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Secure and Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Monroeton, PA

• Hair follicle testing minimizes the chances of sample manipulation, offering credible and unquestionable results.

Achieving reliable outcomes is critical, and the tamper-resistant nature of hair tests ensures authenticity. This security feature is highly valued in drug testing methodologies.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Testing Centers Nationwide and in Monroeton, PA

• Our extensive network of testing locations ensures quick and effortless access to testing services both locally and across the nation.

We provide convenient and efficient testing opportunities, eliminating hassle and facilitating easy access to necessary services.

Simple, Confidential Process

Straightforward and Confidential Process in Monroeton, PA

• The process for ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair drug tests is both simple and private, addressing concerns about privacy effortlessly.

Our confidential system ensures comfort and ease, offering a discreet testing experience from start to finish.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Cost-effective Solutions and Speedy Turnaround in Monroeton, PA

• Our competitive pricing and swift results provide excellent value, making it an ideal option for organizations of various sizes.

The affordability and fast response of our hair testing ensure businesses and individuals receive optimal service without breaking the bank.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Swift and Dependable Outcomes in Monroeton, PA

• Hair follicle drug testing provides speedy and accurate results, ensuring reliability in detecting substance use. Their precision offers peace of mind for employers and guardians.

Accuracy in detection is key in hair follicle testing. This method allows for a thorough assessment of substance use history, outperforming traditional testing methods in both speed and reliability.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employer Compliance and Assurance in Monroeton, PA

• Utilizing hair follicle testing confirms adherence to drug-free workplace standards, reducing legal risks while enhancing overall safety.

Employers achieve peace of mind when using hair tests, as they guarantee policy compliance and a safer work environment.

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