Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive historical record of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of a developing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair can yield up to a nearly 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for initial screening and test confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or testing exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair isn’t accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is integrated into a laboratory’s system. This step includes verification that the sample was properly sealed and transported, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any extra data entry not available through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary rapid check for drug abuse. Though Screening offers a cost-efficient means to dismiss drug usage for most samples, any positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that yield a preliminary positive result in Screening need further confirmation.
If a sample tests presumptively positive during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most complex methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcomes is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The full laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the procedure itself examines the hair strand, not the follicle below the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Fincastle, TN
In Fincastle, TN, hair follicle testing is superior to urine testing due to its enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests, hair tests provide a longer detection window, revealing substance use history up to 90 days.
Employers favor hair tests for their ability to deliver dependable results, reducing the likelihood of sample tampering compared to urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Fincastle, TN
Hair follicle testing in Fincastle, TN offers an extensive detection period for drug use, allowing employers to review up to 90 days of substance history. This extended window provides a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's drug use habits.
Such insights enable employers to make informed decisions, ensuring the workplace remains safe and compliant with drug-free policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Fincastle, TN
Hair follicle testing in Fincastle, TN significantly minimizes the risk of sample adulteration or substitution. By using a sample collection method resistant to tampering, these tests provide reliable and unquestionable results.
This tamper-resistant feature gives employers confidence in the testing process, fostering a trustworthy workplace environment.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Fincastle, TN
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenience through its nationwide and local centers, including Fincastle, TN. Our widespread locations ensure quick, hassle-free access to drug testing services, saving time and effort for busy professionals.
Employers across the nation benefit from our easily accessible centers, streamlining the testing process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Fincastle, TN
Our drug testing process in Fincastle, TN remains simple and confidential, ensuring privacy for all clients. From ordering to receiving results, the process is smooth and anonymous.
We address privacy concerns effectively, allowing individuals to undergo testing without compromising their confidentiality or ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Fincastle, TN
In Fincastle, TN, we offer competitive pricing structures on our hair follicle tests, paired with quick turnaround times. Our services provide excellent value for companies of all sizes, ensuring cost-effective solutions.
Employers appreciate the peace of mind afforded by fast, reliable results at an affordable price point, enhancing overall satisfaction.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Fincastle, TN
Our hair follicle drug tests in Fincastle, TN boast unparalleled precision in detecting substance use. With quick processing times, these tests ensure employers receive reliable results promptly, aiding in timely hiring and compliance decisions.
The superior accuracy of hair follicle testing eclipses that of traditional methods, securing trustworthy outcomes every time.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Fincastle, TN
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Fincastle, TN ensures employers comply with drug-free workplace policies, mitigating potential legal risks and enhancing workplace safety.
This testing method provides peace of mind by delivering accurate results, helping employers uphold strict substance use regulations confidently.