Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now acknowledged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol use. It offers a prolonged timeline of substance use by preserving biomarkers within the hair fiber as it grows. Hair samples taken close to the scalp can reveal drug and alcohol use for roughly up to three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, moderately challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample length of 1.5 inches containing roughly 200 hairs (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and verification. For tests such as EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. It is recommended to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. In the absence of scalp hair, the same quantity of body hair may be obtained. By head hair, we mean hair from the scalp exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure for laboratory processing of drug testing consists of four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial handling of a sample in a lab's system. This step validates that the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data inputs not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening initiates a rapid check for the presence of drugs. Even though Screening is an economical method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed to be legally acceptable. Samples showing a presumptive positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Upon a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction process. At this stage, drugs are retrieved from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than through other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening uniquely challenging.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is done via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though often called "hair follicle tests", the test analyzes hair strands instead of the follicles beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Harrison, TN:
In terms of detection accuracy and reliability, hair follicle testing outperforms traditional urine tests. The hair method provides a wider detection window and higher accuracy, reducing the likelihood of manipulation. Employers in Harrison, TN benefit from a superior testing strategy that yields more comprehensive results.
Extended Detection Window in Harrison, TN:
Hair follicle testing in Harrison, TN excels with its extended detection period, offering insights into drug use for up to 90 days. This substantial window allows employers a thorough understanding of an employee's substance use patterns over time, enhancing decision-making regarding employment and policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Harrison, TN:
Hair follicle tests greatly diminish the risk of sample adulteration, offering reliable and incontrovertible results. This method's inherent resistance to tampering ensures that drug testing outcomes are accurate and dependable, reinforcing trust in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Harrison, TN:
With testing centers conveniently located across the nation, including Harrison, TN, services are easily accessible. The centers' extensive reach ensures quick and straightforward access for those needing testing, minimizing delays and hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Harrison, TN:
The process for ordering, conducting, and receiving results of hair follicle tests in Harrison, TN is straightforward and confidential. This ensures privacy and ease, addressing patient and employer concerns while maintaining efficiency and security throughout the testing procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Harrison, TN:
Competitive pricing combined with rapid turnaround times characterizes hair follicle testing in Harrison, TN. This balance provides companies of all sizes excellent value and assurance, making drug testing both cost-effective and efficient.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Harrison, TN:
Hair follicle drug tests in Harrison, TN offer unmatched precision and speed, providing highly accurate detection of substance use. These tests are designed to deliver fast, reliable results, giving employers and individuals the confidence they need. The accuracy in identifying drug use ensures that decisions are based on trustworthy information.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Harrison, TN:
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps assure compliance with workplace drug-free regulations, mitigating legal risks. Employers enjoy peace of mind knowing that their drug-testing program supports safety and legal adherence, fostering a safer workplace environment.
