Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The examination of hair has emerged as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand, offering a prolonged history of alcohol and drug use. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal up to nearly a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and simple to transport.
To obtain an optimal sample for screening and confirmation, a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp is needed, delivering 100mg of hair. For EtG, additional testing, and/or evaluations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be acquired. When discussing head hair, it specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (including facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for determining a drug test outcome encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and transported, attributing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive screening outcome must be confirmed for it to be valid in legal settings. Any samples with presumptive positive results from Screening require secondary confirmation.
Should a sample indicate presumptive positivity at the Screening phase, further hair is extracted from the initial sample for preparation in Extraction. Within this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), marking hair drug screening as the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positive results are washed before confirmation as required. The comprehensive lab process 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: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the examination itself targets the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Prevails in Provo, SD
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the benefits are apparent. Hair tests boast superior detection accuracy and reliability, making them the favored choice for employers and agencies. This method not only outperforms urine tests in uncovering long-term substance use but also ensures comprehensive and foolproof evaluation.
Longer Detection Window for a Clearer Picture in Provo, SD
Hair follicle testing extends the timeline for detecting substance use up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an individual's history with drugs, presenting a more complete perspective of potential hires or current employees. With this extended detection window, informed decisions become easier and more reliable.
A Tamper-Proof Testing Solution in Provo, SD
Hair follicle assessments significantly lower tampering risks, offering highly reliable and unequivocal results. Unlike other testing methods, hair tests are resistant to alteration, making them the ideal choice for environments that demand unwavering accuracy and integrity in drug testing results.
Nationwide and Local Testing Convenience in Provo, SD
Accredited Drug Testing provides widespread and convenient locations for hair follicle testing. With centers readily accessible nationwide and locally in Provo, SD, it ensures ease and efficiency for all individuals seeking testing services, eliminating the hassle of traveling long distances.
Effortless and Private Process in Provo, SD
Our hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential, ensuring stress-free order placements, testing, and results retrieval. Addressing privacy concerns, we guarantee secure handling of all personal data, making the entire procedure streamlined and discreet.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Results in Provo, SD
Our hair follicle testing offers exceptional value with affordable pricing structures and rapid turnaround times. Companies of all sizes can benefit from cost-effective solutions without compromising on the quality and speed of results, granting both value and reassurance.
Speedy, Precise, and Reliable in Provo, SD
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched speed and precision in identifying substance use. These tests ensure a high level of accuracy, providing confident results for all your testing needs. Compared to other methods, hair tests lead the way in delivering fast, trustworthy outcomes that stand up to scrutiny.
Ensuring Compliance and Peace for Employers in Provo, SD
Utilizing hair follicle tests guarantees adherence to workplace drug-free policies, reducing legal uncertainties and fostering a safer work environment. Employers can rest assured knowing they're promoting a healthy workspace and minimizing risks associated with workplace substance misuse.
