Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for detecting substance and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a historical record of drug and alcohol use by capturing biomarkers within its fibers. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of up to three months for substances and alcohol. Hair is straightforward to collect, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, delivers 100mg of hair, which is the ideal amount for initial testing and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and any analysis beyond 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended for measuring the sample. If no scalp hair is accessible, the same weight of body hair can be obtained. When mentioning head hair, it specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair covers all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The drug test result procedure in laboratories consists of four principal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning comprises the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This phase ensures the sample's proper sealing and shipping, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data input not available from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary examination for substances of abuse. Screening serves as a budget-friendly method to exclude drug usage in most samples; however, a positive screening outcome must be validated for legal acceptability. Samples suggesting a positive result in Screening require further confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive outcome, additional hair is taken from the provided sample to prepare for Extraction. In Extraction, drugs are taken from hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing more complex than other methods.
Verification of positive screening results is accomplished using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples suggesting positivity undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Watauga, SD
Hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. Its longer detection period and higher reliability make it a more effective choice. Unlike urine tests, hair follicle screenings provide insights into sustained drug use, enhancing trust in the results for both employers and individuals.
Extended Detection Window in Watauga, SD
The hair follicle drug test provides valuable insights, detecting drug use over an extensive period of up to 90 days. This extended window allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance history, offering a fuller picture compared to other testing methods with shorter detection spans.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Watauga, SD
Hair follicle testing offers a robust solution against sample adulteration. This method's design significantly minimizes the risk of tampering, ensuring the integrity and trustworthiness of the results. Employers can be confident in the outcomes obtained, adding an extra level of assurance to the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Watauga, SD
With our wide network of testing centers dispersed nationwide, accessing our services is effortless and convenient. The ability to engage in drug testing services seamlessly ensures individuals and employers experience a hassle-free process, enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of our testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Watauga, SD
The process for ordering, taking, and obtaining results from a hair follicle test is straightforward and confidential, prioritizing users' privacy and convenience. Concerns about privacy are minimal due to the discreet handling of the entire testing process, assuring sensitive information remains protected.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Watauga, SD
Our competitive pricing structures ensure affordability for businesses of any size, while our rapid turnaround time delivers results efficiently. The combination of cost-effectiveness and swift service turns our testing option into a valuable resource, maximizing the benefits of hair follicle drug testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Watauga, SD
Hair follicle drug testing offers swift, precise, and dependable results. Their high accuracy level in detecting substance use sets them apart from other testing methods. The detailed analysis ensures that both employers and individuals can trust the results they receive, making it a preferred option for those in Watauga seeking reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Watauga, SD
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports adherence to workplace drug-free policies, diminishing legal risks and boosting overall workplace safety. Employers benefit from the reliability of the test, ensuring compliance, and providing a sense of security that reinforces peace of mind.
