Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Cordova, TN

What it is, How it works

Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures long-term evidence of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. Collected near the scalp, hair offers up to a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to doctor, and simple to ship.

A sample of 1.5 inches of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for evaluation and validation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests surpassing 10 panels, a specimen weight of 150mg is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent amount of body hair may be collected. By head hair, we mean scalp hair only. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The fundamental steps in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning comprises the initial processing of a sample into a lab’s system. It consists of verifying that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional information that an electronic chain of custody system does not provide.

Screening involves an initial rapid examination for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result must be confirmed to be accepted in court. Any samples that show presumptive positivity in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.

If a sample indicates presumptive positivity during Screening, more hair is extracted from the initial specimen and prepared for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration than with other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the most challenging methodologies to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screening result is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed based on both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine tests which have a shorter detection timeframe.
• Hard to cheat: It is very challenging to deceive a hair drug test, resulting in more accurate outcomes.
• Offers historical data: It demonstrates a pattern of drug usage over time, not just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Limited ability to detect recent use: It requires about 5-7 days for drugs to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are usually costlier than other drug testing approaches.
• Variability in results: Factors like hair color and individual hair growth can affect the concentration of drug metabolites in hair.

Note: Often called "hair follicle tests", the examination actually assesses the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Choosing hair follicle testing over urine testing in Cordova, TN, provides significant advantages. One of the most prominent benefits is the markedly superior detection accuracy, which surpasses traditional urine tests. Hair tests offer a more reliable overview.

Hair follicle testing provides detailed insight over several months, drastically improving on the brief detection periods of urine tests. This increased reliability aids employers in maintaining rigorous standards within their organizations.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle tests in Cordova, TN, offer a remarkable detection window, capable of identifying drug use for up to 90 days. This extensive timeframe grants employers a deeper understanding of an individual's substance use history.

Unlike other methods, hair follicle tests allow comprehensive views of an employee or applicant's behavior. The extended detection period means employers can confidently make long-term decisions based on this clear depiction of past usage.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

In Cordova, TN, hair follicle testing acts as a tamper-resistant solution for drug testing. This method significantly minimizes any possibility of sample adulteration, ensuring results remain credible and trustworthy.

Employers can rely on the strength of hair follicle testing to safeguard against tampering. Its rigorous collection and testing processes guarantee inaccurate results due to manipulation are not a concern.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

In Cordova, TN, the numerous local and nationwide testing centers offer astounding convenience. This accessibility ensures effortless and quick service, reducing the hassle experienced with drug testing processes.

Testing locations nationwide are strategically placed to serve Cordova residents and businesses efficiently. The convenience of such wide coverage provides peace of mind for all involved, guaranteeing smooth, expedient access.

Simple, Confidential Process

The hair follicle testing process in Cordova, TN, is both simple and confidential. From ordering the test to the actual testing and retrieval of results, each step prioritizes ease of use and privacy.

Concern for privacy is a top priority at each phase of the testing process. This straightforward approach ensures individuals feel comfortable and assured throughout the testing experience.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Our affordable pricing and quick turnaround times in Cordova, TN, make hair follicle testing a favorable option. Offering competitive rates, we provide excellent value without compromising quality.

Companies of all sizes can benefit from our cost-effective testing solutions. Quick result delivery is crucial, and our efficient processes ensure swift responses to vital employee testing needs within budget.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Hair follicle drug testing in Cordova, TN, offers fast, reliable results. With unmatched precision, these tests are highly accurate in detecting substance use, ensuring that individuals are correctly assessed. Our process is meticulously crafted to alert employers swiftly.

Employers benefit from the extremely high accuracy rates of hair follicle testing. Known for its thorough analysis, this method leaves little room for error, ultimately saving time and resources in identifying substance use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Hair follicle testing provides peace of mind for employers in Cordova, TN, ensuring compliance with zero-tolerance policies. This method not only reduces legal risks but enhances overall workplace safety and employee confidence.

By utilizing hair follicle tests, businesses are equipped to uphold a drug-free environment. This testing guarantees adherence to regulations and supports a secure and stress-free workplace setting.

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