Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Through embedding biomarkers in the strands of growing hair, it offers an extensive history of substance use. When taken near the scalp, hair samples can reveal alcohol and drug use for nearly three months. The collection process is uncomplicated, altering the sample is relatively challenging, and it is convenient to transport.
Securing a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides the optimal 100mg sample for analysis and verification. For EtG, extra analysis, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg specimen amount is advisable. It's beneficial to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. In situations where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically means scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other hair types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
Laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial handling of a sample within a laboratory system. This step ensures the sample's sealing and proper shipment, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and concludes any supplementary data entry not provided by electronic chain of custody systems.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for detected drug usage. Although a cost-effective method to generally dismiss drug use, a positive Screen necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. All samples with presumptive positives in Screening demand secondary verification.
In the event of a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are removed from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid). This illustrates why hair drug testing is the most complex method to perform.
Positive screening results are validated via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Every sample with presumptive positives is cleansed before confirmation, if necessary. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Downsides:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the evaluation is performed on the hair strand itself, not the follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rapid Valley, SD
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine testing in several ways. It offers superior detection accuracy and reliability compared to urine tests. While urine tests may fall short in detecting long-term substance use, hair tests reveal a more comprehensive story, often crucial for employers aiming for strict drug-free environments.
Extended Detection Window in Rapid Valley, SD
Hair follicle testing provides a significant advantage with its broad detection window, spanning up to 90 days. In Rapid Valley, this lengthy period helps employers gain a clearer picture of a candidate or employee's drug history. Such insight is invaluable for maintaining workplace safety and policy compliance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rapid Valley, SD
Hair follicle tests drastically minimize the risk of sample tampering. In Rapid Valley, these tests deliver reliable results, assuring users of their accuracy and integrity. Unlike other methods, hair testing's secure nature curtails attempts at adulterating samples, providing an incontrovertible assessment.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Rapid Valley, SD
Our nationwide and local presence in Rapid Valley allows for convenient drug testing access. Multiple centers ensure quick, easy, and hassle-free testing. This extensive network simplifies the process for both individuals and businesses, underscoring our commitment to accessibility.
Simple, Confidential Process in Rapid Valley, SD
With an emphasis on simplicity and confidentiality, our hair follicle testing in Rapid Valley is straightforward for everyone. The process, from ordering to receiving results, prioritizes privacy and ease of use, ensuring participants' concerns are addressed professionally.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rapid Valley, SD
We provide competitive pricing structures, allowing Rapid Valley companies to access drug testing services without financial burdens. The fast turnaround times further enhance value, giving businesses excellent value alongside prompt results, crucial for timely decision-making processes.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Rapid Valley, SD
In Rapid Valley, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed. These tests provide high accuracy in detecting substance use, making them a preferred choice. The rapid process from collection to results ensures that individuals and employers receive dependable and swift outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rapid Valley, SD
Employing hair follicle testing in Rapid Valley brings compliance with workplace drug policies. It reduces legal risks, promotes a safe work environment, and assures employers of a drug-free workplace, leading to peace of mind and enhanced organizational efficiency.