Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has become regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as the hair grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to send for testing.
A sample length of 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 hairs (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred quantity for testing and verification. For EtG add-ons or tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is advisable. If scalp hair cannot be sourced, an equivalent volume of body hair may be used. In the context of head hair, this refers only to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The four critical stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into the lab system. This step verifies secure sealing and delivery of the sample, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any further data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening acts as a preliminary rapid test for drugs. Although cost-efficient for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive result from screening necessitates confirmation for legal acceptability. Samples presumed positive in Screening must undergo additional confirmation.
If a sample appears positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is taken from the primary sample and readied for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence making hair drug screening a challenging methodology.
Confirmation for any positive screen results is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumed positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The whole lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated according to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis is done on the hair strand itself, not the follicle located under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Tests in Nixon, PA
Hair follicle tests in Nixon, PA, are superior to traditional urine tests in identifying substance use. The hair test's extended detection window provides a broader view of a person's drug history.
Offering greater accuracy and reducing the likelihood of manipulation, hair testing proves to be a more trustworthy method of ensuring a drug-free workplace.
Extended Detection Period in Nixon, PA
Hair follicle testing offers an extended detection period of up to 90 days, making it an invaluable tool for employers in Nixon, PA. This extensive window allows for a comprehensive review of a person’s substance use history.
With its capability to reach farther back into an individual's drug use timeline, it provides a more complete snapshot than other testing methods.
Secure, Tamper-Resistant Testing in Nixon, PA
Hair follicle tests greatly mitigate the risk of tampering, ensuring secure and accurate testing in Nixon, PA. Unlike urine tests, hair tests are collected under a monitored process, reducing the chances of sample adulteration.
This method provides reliable outcomes, giving confidence in the integrity of the test results obtained.
Convenient Testing Locations in Nixon, PA
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenience with multiple nationwide centers and local sites in Nixon, PA. Accessibility to testing services is simplified, offering hassle-free experiences for individuals.
These readily available locations ensure that testing is conducted easily and quickly, optimizing the overall testing process.
Simple and Confidential Process in Nixon, PA
The process for hair follicle testing in Nixon, PA, is designed to be both straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving results, every step ensures user privacy and simplicity.
Such streamlined procedures reassure users about the ease and discretion of the hair testing service provided.
Affordable Pricing and Quick Turnaround Times in Nixon, PA
Accredited Drug Testing in Nixon, PA, delivers affordable pricing alongside swift result updates, ensuring excellent value for companies of varying sizes.
With competitive costs and speedy outcomes, businesses benefit from efficient, cost-effective drug testing services that do not compromise on quality.
Fast and Reliable Results in Nixon, PA
Hair follicle drug tests in Nixon, PA, offer rapid and accurate results that are highly reliable in detecting drug use. With their superior detection abilities, they provide a high level of accuracy in identifying substance presence.
Thanks to the meticulous analysis process, hair tests can promptly deliver results, making them a favored choice for employers looking for fast answers.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Nixon, PA
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers in Nixon, PA, can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal liabilities and promoting workplace safety.
The use of reliable hair tests helps maintain a secure and compliant working environment, providing peace of mind to employers and stakeholders alike.