Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Hot Springs, SD

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has gained a reputation as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a record, retaining the biomarkers of drugs and alcohol within its strands as it grows. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reveal drug use for a period of up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, less prone to tampering, and convenient to transport.

A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is sufficient for both testing and verification. For tests such as EtG and those exceeding ten panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It's best practice to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair not be available, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. Note that when head hair is mentioned, it specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses other types such as facial or axillary hair.

Process Overview

The drug testing laboratory process comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the phase where the sample is logged into the lab’s system. This step ensures the sample was secured and delivered correctly, assigns a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) randomly, and completes other necessary data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening is a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. While cost-effective, screening requires confirmation to validate positive results for legal purposes. All samples with a presumptive positive from Screening must undergo further confirmation.

A presumptive positive result in Screening leads to further hair extraction from the original sample for thorough Examination. In this step, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lesser concentrations compared to methods like urine or oral fluids, making hair drug analysis particularly challenging.

Confirmation of any positive from Screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptively positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as appropriate. Each aspect from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both CAP Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection time frame: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for a duration of up to 90 days, outperforming the detection period of urine tests.
• Difficult to bypass: Cheating a hair drug test is extremely hard, ensuring more reliable results.
• Historical insight: It can trace patterns of drug use over time, rather than just indicating recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Recent use undetectable: Drugs become traceable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug testing typically incurs higher costs compared to alternative methods.
• Result variability: Aspects like hair color and individual hair growth rates can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Common references to "hair follicle tests" are inexact; the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in Hot Springs, SD, offers superior detection accuracy. Hair tests provide a more reliable indicator of drug use over time, highlighting their effectiveness.

This testing method also diminishes false results, offering a more trustworthy perspective, indispensable to employers and authorities seeking unbiased accuracy.

Extended Detection Window

The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Hot Springs, SD, reaches up to 90 days. This capacity offers employers insight into an individual’s substance history over a prolonged term.

Such an expansive detection range ensures a comprehensive review of substance use patterns, assisting in thorough evaluations for potential employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Hot Springs, SD, the reliability of hair follicle tests is evident through their resistance to tampering. The integrity of the samples remains intact, reducing manipulation risk.

This provides unmistakable results, ensuring a dependable analysis is always achieved, leaving little room for doubt.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Hot Springs, SD, the convenience of our testing services is unmatched. With nationwide testing centers, accessibility is never an issue, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Rapid and easy access to testing is achievable through our local and national presence, accommodating a broad spectrum of needs efficiently.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Hot Springs, SD, is exceptionally straightforward and confidential. From ordering to the reception of results, privacy is paramount.

Each step is designed for ease, addressing concerns of use while maintaining individual confidentiality.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Hot Springs, SD, competitive pricing within hair follicle tests ensures affordability. Quick turnaround times and cost-effectiveness offer substantial value for all businesses.

Efficient pricing structures paired with fast results provide satisfaction and value for money, catering to enterprises of every size.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Hot Springs, SD, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their precision and speed. The accuracy of detecting substance utilization is exceptionally high, ensuring reliable results swiftly.

The process is not only quick but also offers uncompromised accuracy in delivering results. This ensures individuals and organizations can trust the outcome for making informed decisions.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Using hair follicle testing in Hot Springs, SD, helps employers adhere to workplace drug-free policies. This strategy mitigates legal risks and enhances workplace safety.

Adopting this methodology provides peace of mind, ensuring compliance and a safe, productive environment.

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