Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Hudson, SD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as it grows. When gathered from near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to around three months for substances like alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the size of a #2 pencil) taken near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for evaluation and verification. For tests with EtG add-ons and/or exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is suggested. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent portion of body hair may be collected. When we mention head hair, it pertains only to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The lab analysis of a drug test outcome involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning refers to the initial entry of a sample into the lab's system. This step includes ensuring the sample is appropriately sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening includes a preliminary swift assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive result requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive during Screening need additional confirmation.

If a sample shows presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the sampled specimen and prepared for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at considerably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is among the most challenging methods to administer.

Confirmation for positive screening results is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug activity for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a reduced detection span.
• Hard to deceive: Cheating a hair drug test is exceedingly difficult, thus the results are more precise.
• Offers historical insights: It can present a pattern of drug use over time, not merely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Incapability to detect recent use: Drugs require about 5-7 days to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests generally incur higher costs than other testing methods.
• Result variations: Variables such as hair color and personal differences in hair growth can impact drug metabolite concentration within the hair.

Note: Though often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis evaluates the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hudson, SD

• Compared to traditional urine tests, hair testing offers unmatched detection accuracy.
• Urine tests have a limited window, while hair tests provide a wider detection period.
• This broad opportunity to identify substances ensures higher reliability.

Hudson, SD sees better detection capabilities and reliability with hair follicle tests than with conventional urine tests.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Hudson, SD

• Hair follicle tests reveal drug use over a prolonged period, extending up to 90 days.
• This long window allows employers to assess a comprehensive substance history.

For businesses in Hudson, SD, this translates into a detailed understanding of an individual's drug use patterns, shaping informed decisions based on extensive data.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hudson, SD

• Hair follicle tests reduce the risk of sample manipulation significantly.
• The nature of these tests ensures trustworthy results.
• This reliability is key to maintaining integrity in results.

In Hudson, SD, adopting hair testing reduces concerns over test-tampering, providing genuine peace of mind.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hudson, SD

• Our centers are widely accessible, offering convenient local and national testing services.
• With numerous locations, obtaining a test is fast and hassle-free.

In Hudson, SD, this convenience translates into stress-free experiences with easy access to necessary testing.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Hudson, SD

• The procedure for taking a hair follicle test is straightforward and discreet.
• Privacy concerns are minimized with confidential handling of results.
• This leads to an efficient and secure process for everyone involved.

Hence, in Hudson, SD, individuals can confidently partake in drug testing assured of confidentiality and simplicity.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hudson, SD

• Our competitive pricing structures offer unparalleled value.
• Prompt result delivery minimizes wait times for clients, enhancing satisfaction.
• Companies of all sizes benefit from these robust benefits.

Therefore, in Hudson, SD, the combination of affordability and speed ensures businesses receive optimal service without breaking the bank.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hudson, SD

• Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and efficiency.
• High accuracy rates make them invaluable in identifying substance use.
• This testing method ensures results that reflect reliable data, providing confidence in outcomes.

In Hudson, SD, the use of hair follicle testing leads to precise and trustworthy results, proving instrumental for both individuals and organizations.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hudson, SD

• Hair follicle testing fosters adherence to drug-free policies.
• Employers benefit from reduced legal risks and heightened workplace safety.
• This testing approach enhances the organizational environment.

Thus, in Hudson, SD, employers can enjoy peace of mind knowing their policies meet compliance standards efficiently.

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