Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a prolonged record of exposure to alcohol and other substances by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When taken close to the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use for approximately three months. The collection of hair samples is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) near the scalp constitutes 100mg, which is optimal for testing and verification. For EtG extensions and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is preferred. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for measurement. Should scalp hair be inaccessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be gathered. When we mention head hair, we refer exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four fundamental phases in the lab analysis of a drug test: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the primary handling of a sample into the lab’s database. This step includes checking that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any missing data not supplied by an electronic chain of custody application.
Screening acts as an initial assessment for substance abuse. Though it’s an economical method to eliminate drug use in most cases, a positive Screening necessitates validation to be legally viable. Samples that are tentatively positive in Screening require further confirmation.
Should a specimen be tentatively positive at the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the preliminary sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug tests are the most challenging to execute.
Any positive outcome from Screening undergoes Confirmation through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Samples with presumptive positivity are cleaned before confirmation as required. The whole lab sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often named "hair follicle tests", the examination targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Is Superior to Urine Testing in Iona, SD: Hair follicle testing offers better detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike traditional urine tests, hair samples can detect long-term drug use, giving a clear picture of an individual's history.
Advantages Over Urine Testing
Extended Detection Window in Iona, SD: Hair follicle testing provides a much longer detection period, up to 90 days, making it valuable for employers who need a comprehensive view of substance use history among applicants or employees. This extended window is crucial for assessing long-term patterns.
Comprehensive History
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Iona, SD: Hair follicle tests are highly resistant to tampering. By reducing the risk of adulteration, they deliver reliable and unquestionable results. This integrity is a major asset for legal and employment settings.
Unmatched Integrity
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Iona, SD: The availability of our extensive network of testing centers ensures quick and hassle-free access to hair follicle testing services, making it easy to maintain compliance and safety standards with minimal disruption.
Accessible Locations
Simple, Confidential Process in Iona, SD: The process for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring results are delivered efficiently. This ease of use makes it a popular choice for both individuals and organizations.
Privacy Assured
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Iona, SD: We offer competitive pricing and a quick turnaround in hair follicle testing, providing excellent value. Our services are tailored to suit different organizational sizes, ensuring fast results without breaking the bank.
Cost-Effective Solutions
In Iona, SD, hair follicle drug testing is gaining popularity as its precision and speed make it the preferred method for detecting substance use. This test surpasses traditional methods by effectively identifying various substances with high accuracy, providing confidence for employers and other concerned parties.
Confidence in Results
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Iona, SD: Using hair follicle testing assures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method equips employers to minimize legal risks while ensuring safety and productivity.
Policy Assurance