Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Identified as an effective method in detecting drug and alcohol utilization, hair tests offer extensive historical insight into substance usage. This is achieved by the entrapment of biomarkers within the fibers of the elongating hair strand. When obtained near the scalp, hair can detect substances for a period extending up to roughly three months. The collection process is straightforward, tampering is relatively challenging, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A 1.5-inch segment composed of roughly 200 strands of hair, comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil, situated closest to the scalp provides a 100mg sample. This is optimal for screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional panels, and/or tests exceeding ten panels, it is advisable to have 150mg of the specimen. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale is recommended for weighing the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair may be utilized. When referring to head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
There are four core phases in the processing of a drug test result within the laboratory setting: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the preliminary handling of a sample within a lab's system takes place. This involves ensuring that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary scan for substance abuse. Although cost-effective, a positive screen must be substantiated to be permissible in legal proceedings. Any sample that yields a presumptive positive during Screening mandates further confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive at the Screening phase, additional hair from the initial specimen is prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a reduced concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of performing hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation when necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis is conducted on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bells, TN
The hair follicle test surpasses traditional urine tests in several aspects of detection accuracy and reliability. Hair testing boasts a longer detection window and higher resistance to tampering, making it the better choice for employers aiming to maintain a drug-free environment with utmost assurance and reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Bells, TN
One of the standout advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window, which can reach up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an applicant’s or employee's substance use history, offering a broad and in-depth perspective that urine tests fall short on.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bells, TN
Hair follicle tests are notably resistant to sample adulteration, reducing the dangers of tampering and ensuring results that are both reliable and indisputable. This characteristic makes hair testing an invaluable tool for circumstances where testing integrity is paramount.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bells, TN
Our testing centers provide convenience with nationwide reach, ensuring quick and hassle-free access to testing services across the country. This network supports smooth and straightforward testing processes for individuals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bells, TN
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and private, from ordering the test to receiving results. We prioritize confidentiality and ease of use, alleviating any concerns related to privacy and simplifying the testing journey for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bells, TN
Our competitive pricing structures paired with fast turnaround times offer exceptional value, catering to companies of every size. Quality testing is delivered efficiently without breaking the bank, providing peace of mind alongside affordability.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bells, TN
Hair follicle drug tests offer precise and prompt results, standing out in their ability to accurately detect substance use. These tests are exceptionally reliable, delivering trustworthiness and high accuracy with every screening. Their efficiency in providing quick results makes them a preferred choice across various testing scenarios.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bells, TN
Utilizing hair follicle testing supports compliance with workplace drug-free policies, providing employers with peace of mind. It reduces legal risks and enhances safety, ensuring a secure and compliant working environment through dependable testing methods.
