Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as a crucial method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a comprehensive record of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the structure of the hair shaft during its growth. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug use within a roughly 3-month timeframe. The collection is straightforward, manipulation is relatively challenging, and transport is convenient.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for both testing and validation. For EtG, supplementary analyses, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. It is suggested to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, a similar quantity of body hair may be gathered. "Head hair" pertains solely to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the laboratory analysis of a drug test outcome consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the first stage of entering a sample into the lab's system. This phase includes ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry not captured by an electronic evidence chain system.
Screening involves an initial swift evaluation for illicit substances. Although Screening is economical for dismissing drug presence in most samples, a confirmed positive result is required for legal proceedings. Every sample that tests potentially positive during Screening necessitates further validation.
In cases where Screening indicates a potential positive, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. Here, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in alternative methods (e.g., urine or saliva), highlighting hair testing as the most complex technique.
Confirming any positive from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating a presumptive positive are cleansed pre-confirmation as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and ISO / IEC 17025 certification standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair shaft, not the follicle embedded within the scalp
When comparing hair follicle testing and urine tests in Bijou Hills, SD, several advantages favor the former. Hair testing excels in detection accuracy and reliability, offering a clearer view of substance use over time. This approach minimizes false negatives and provides a more thorough history.
The benefits of choosing hair testing over urine are significant. A broader detection window and improved accuracy ensure a dependable evaluation, making hair testing a strong choice for those prioritizing comprehensive screenings.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Bijou Hills, SD, is a key advantage. This method allows for the identification of drug use spanning up to 90 days, offering a detailed snapshot of an individual's usage patterns. Employers gain valuable insights into their applicant or employee's long-term behavior with this approach.
By covering a more extended period, hair follicle testing empowers organizations to make informed decisions backed by a thorough substance history analysis.
Bijou Hills, SD, benefits from hair follicle testing's tamper-resistant qualities, which greatly reduce the chance of adulterating samples. This robust method ensures reliability and accuracy in detecting drug use, providing results that stand up to scrutiny.
Businesses and courts can trust hair testing to deliver truthful insights into substance histories, as the chances of manipulation are minimal compared to other testing methods.
Bijou Hills, SD, enjoys convenient access to nationwide testing centers from Accredited Drug Testing. This broad network of facilities ensures smooth and easy testing processes, minimizing the hassle typically associated with drug testing.
Local and widespread availability means that no matter the location, individuals and businesses can rely on accessible, efficient, and timely testing services.
In Bijou Hills, SD, the simplicity and confidentiality of the hair follicle testing process are paramount. Our streamlined order-to-result experience guarantees privacy at every step, easing concerns about confidentiality.
Clients can undertake tests knowing that their privacy is safeguarded, with an uncomplicated process providing swift and discreet service.
Offering competitive pricing and a fast turnaround, Accredited Drug Testing provides excellent value in Bijou Hills, SD. Our cost-effective solutions cater to companies of all sizes, ensuring affordability without compromising on quality.
Timely results and transparent pricing give businesses confidence in their drug testing investments, maximizing their return while maintaining strict testing standards.
Experience quick and dependable results in Bijou Hills, SD, with hair follicle drug testing. This method stands out for its precision and speed, offering accurate detection of various substances. By focusing on the meticulous process of hair testing, clients can trust that these tests provide clarity and reliable assessments of substance use.
Hair testing's high accuracy level means that test results come with confidence, thereby enabling informed decisions from healthcare providers and employers. This assurance stems from the detailed analysis inherent to this methodology.
Employers in Bijou Hills, SD, find peace of mind and compliance assurance with hair follicle testing. By adhering to strict drug-free workplace policies, businesses mitigate legal risks and foster a safer work environment.
Adopting this method for screening aligns with rigorous standards, ensuring that companies meet regulatory requirements while enhancing the overall safety and productivity of their workforce.
