Hair Follicle Drug Testing - De Smet, SD

What it is, How it works

Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a significant method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. The hair can provide an extended timeline of alcohol and drug presence by incorporating biomarkers within the strands of the growing hair. When sampled close to the scalp, hair can offer a detection period of up to roughly three months for alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, moderately challenging to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.

A 1.5-inch sample consisting of around 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil in thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for analysis and verification. For EtG, add-ons, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't present, a comparable quantity of body hair may be used. When referring to head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair alone. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The main laboratory procedures in processing a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is related to the initial handling of a sample within a lab's system. This process verifies that the sample was adequately sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. It is an economical technique to eliminate drug usage in most samples, but a positive screen requires confirmation to be court-acceptable. Any samples showing presumptive positivity during Screening require a follow-up confirmation.

If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen for Extraction. At this point, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than in urine or oral fluid, contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.

Confirmation of positive screening results is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are presumptively positive are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can indicate drug usage for up to 90 days, while urine tests have a more limited detection period.
• Resistance to tampering: Cheating a hair drug test is notably difficult, enhancing result accuracy.
• Yields historical insights: It can reveal a drug use pattern over time, not only recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become detectable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally cost more than other methods.
• Result variability: Elements like hair color and personal hair growth differences can impact drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Though frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand, not the follicle within the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair follicle testing versus urine tests in De Smet, SD, the former shines due to its unparalleled detection accuracy. Hair testing far surpasses traditional urine methods, providing a more reliable analysis. The ability to identify substance use over an extended time frame establishes its superiority, offering agencies a dependable alternative.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing distinctively offers a prolonged detection period of up to 90 days in De Smet, SD. This extensive window gives employers vital insights into an individual's substance history, aiding informed decision-making. The longer detection period is crucial for an exhaustive assessment of a candidate's or employee's past drug usage.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in De Smet, SD, provide a significant advantage due to their tamper-resistant nature. The integrity of results is maintained since the testing process minimizes risks of sample tampering. This reliability ensures accurate readings, giving stakeholders confidence in the testing outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

De Smet, SD, benefits from our extensive network of nationwide testing centers, simplifying access. With strategic locations nationwide, testing becomes not only convenient but also hassle-free, allowing individuals to undergo tests swiftly and efficiently without logistical concerns.

Simple, Confidential Process

In De Smet, SD, our hair follicle testing process is designed to be straightforward and confidential. Clients experience a seamless procedure from ordering to receiving results, without sacrificing privacy or ease. This approach resolves concerns about security and convenience, ensuring client satisfaction.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

We offer cost-effective pricing with prompt turnaround for hair follicle testing in De Smet, SD, ensuring value for businesses of any size. Our competitive pricing strategy combined with fast, reliable delivery makes it an excellent choice, allowing companies to manage drug-testing budgets efficiently.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In De Smet, SD, hair follicle drug testing stands out for its swift and precise results. Speed and accuracy are vital, and these tests excel in detecting substances reliably. The method ensures that results are not only prompt but also hold high credibility, making them indispensable in workplaces aiming for effective substance monitoring.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

For employers in De Smet, SD, adopting hair follicle testing guarantees compliance with drug-free workplace policies. The method reduces legal liabilities and enhances safety by confirming adherence to company standards. Hair testing upholds the integrity and security of the work environment efficiently.

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