Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair fibers capture biomarkers over time, offering a detailed history of alcohol and illicit drugs' presence in the strand. A sample collected near the scalp can reveal with roughly a 3-month period for identifying alcohol and drugs. Collection of hair is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and easy to transport.
To gather a 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil's diameter), which yields 100mg of hair, provides the optimum sample volume for evaluating and verifying results. For advanced tests such as EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler's scale is advised for accurate measurement. Should scalp hair be absent, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean only scalp hair; body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The principal stages in lab processing of a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary phase of integrating a sample into the lab's workflow. This step checks if the sample's sealing and shipping were conducted correctly, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishes any other data input missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial assessment for abuse substances. Although a cost-effective method for excluding drug use in the majority of cases, positive screening results must be verified to be legally valid. Any samples flagged in Screening as presumptively positive demand a secondary validation.
Should a specimen be flagged as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. During this step, drugs are drawn from hair at markedly lower concentrations compared to other techniques (such as urine or saliva), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug testing.
To verify any presumptive Screening results, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods are used. All samples identified as presumptive positive are washed before verification if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes a thorough review following the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Schaefferstown, PA
In Schaefferstown, hair follicle tests outshine traditional urine tests by providing superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests offer a more extended detection window and are less susceptible to tampering, ensuring credible results.
The enhanced precision of hair testing provides valuable insights. Compared to urine tests, hair analysis reveals long-term drug use, offering a better gauge of an individual's substance history. This gives employers confidence in their hiring and monitoring processes.
Extended Detection Window in Schaefferstown, PA
Hair follicle testing distinguishes itself with an ability to detect drug use over an expansive duration of up to 90 days. This capability offers employers in Schaefferstown an extensive review of a candidate's substance history, aiding informed decisions.
The prolonged period covered by hair testing underscores its usefulness for employers seeking a comprehensive understanding of an applicant or employee's drug use history, surpassing the limited detection window of urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Schaefferstown, PA
Hair follicle tests offer Schaefferstown significant protection against the risk of sample adulteration. This method stands out for its reliability, providing results that remain unquestionable and trustworthy.
The robustness of hair testing effectively minimizes attempts at tampering, securing its standing as a trusted approach. Confidence in test results is paramount for maintaining drug-free policies and ensuring fair assessments.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Schaefferstown, PA
Our network of testing centers offers convenience across the nation, inclusive of local services in Schaefferstown. The broad reach ensures quick, facile access to drug testing services.
With numerous locations available, the process becomes seamless, making it easy for employers and individuals to handle testing without any stress or delay, bolstering both convenience and efficiency.
Simple, Confidential Process in Schaefferstown, PA
Our testing services in Schaefferstown ensure a straightforward, confidential approach to ordering, conducting, and receiving results. Privacy concerns are addressed while maintaining an easy-to-follow process.
Each step, from test initiation to results delivery, is designed for ease and discretion, allowing individuals to comfortably navigate the process with confidence in the protection of their personal information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Schaefferstown, PA
Competitive pricing structures, paired with swift turnaround times, make our hair follicle testing services in Schaefferstown an attractive option. We provide value and assurance to companies of all sizes.
Fast result delivery and cost-efficient testing underscore our commitment to service satisfaction, ensuring employers can effectively manage their drug testing needs without financial strain.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Schaefferstown, PA
Hair follicle testing in Schaefferstown provides exceptional accuracy and rapid results. The testing method ensures precise detection of substance use, offering a reliable overview of an individual's drug usage. Speed and accuracy are pivotal, making hair follicle tests a top choice.
Quick turnarounds, coupled with reliable analyses, enhance the effectiveness of these tests, offering a trustworthy assessment for both employers and individuals. Clients are assured of a dependable understanding of drug use patterns.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Schaefferstown, PA
Using hair follicle testing facilitates compliance with drug-free workplace policies in Schaefferstown, significantly reducing legal risks while enhancing safety and security in the work environment.
Hair testing provides a reliable means to ascertain the substance use habits of employees, allowing employers to maintain compliance while feeling confident in promoting a safe working atmosphere, fostering peace of mind.
