Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now acknowledged as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair retains a long-term record of alcohol and various drugs by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal usage over an approximately 3-month timeframe for alcohol and drugs. Hair gathering is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hairs (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is considered the optimal amount for assessment and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest measuring the sample's weight with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not present, the same amount of body hair can be collected. “Head hair†refers exclusively to hair on the scalp, while “body hair†encompasses all other types (including facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result involves four key phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample within a laboratory’s system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary rapid check for substance abuse. Although Screening efficiently identifies drug use in most samples, court-admissible results necessitate Confirmation if a positive screen is obtained. Samples yielding presumptive positive results in Screening must undergo additional confirmation.
Upon obtaining a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and accreditation by ISO / IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests", the test pertains to the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests in Lower Brule, SD, the former offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing not only identifies drug use over an extended period but also eliminates many of the common inaccuracies associated with urine tests. The comprehensive results empower employers to make informed decisions.
Hair follicle testing in Lower Brule, SD, provides an extended detection window of up to 90 days, offering employers a detailed view of an individual's substance history. This longer timeframe captures drug use beyond the capability of standard tests, allowing for more informed evaluations regarding employment and compliance.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle tests significantly reduces the risk of adulteration in Lower Brule, SD. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests are virtually impossible to alter, giving credible results that can withstand legal scrutiny. This ensures reliability and trust in the testing process.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient testing locations nationwide and locally in Lower Brule, SD. This accessibility ensures that testing is quick and hassle-free, making it easier for individuals and employers to meet required testing needs without delay. Our centers are strategically positioned for ease of access.
The process for conducting hair follicle testing in Lower Brule, SD, is simple and confidential. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, every step prioritizes client privacy and ease. This streamlined approach addresses any concerns regarding confidentiality and the testing process's simplicity.
In Lower Brule, SD, competitive pricing and fast turnaround times for hair follicle testing offer exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. Our affordable pricing structures ensure companies can manage testing expenses without compromising on speed or accuracy, providing confidence and cost-efficiency.
In Lower Brule, SD, hair follicle testing stands out for its precision and speed in detecting substance use. With advanced technology, hair tests offer a high level of accuracy, ensuring reliable results. These tests efficiently identify drug traces long after initial use, providing a solid foundation for decisions regarding employment or probation.
For employers in Lower Brule, SD, hair follicle testing provides assurance in maintaining a drug-free workplace and compliance with legal standards. This method reduces the potential for legal disputes and enhances safety, allowing organizations to focus on their operational goals with peace of mind.
