Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a formidable method for identifying drug and alcohol use. By capturing biomarkers in the strands of hair, it provides a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug consumption. A sample taken directly from the scalp area can offer up to a 3-month detection window for substances. The collection process is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipment.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (akin to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair sample is advisable. It is recommended to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the hair. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent portion of body hair can be taken. When mentioning head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair. In contrast, body hair includes all other types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four primary steps in processing a drug test result in the laboratory: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial task of introducing a sample into the laboratory system. This step involves verifying that the sample was securely sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry required beyond an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening represents a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-effective method of eliminating drug use in most samples, a positive result must be verified for court admissibility. Samples that indicate presumptive positivity in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is withdrawn from the initial batch and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations significantly lower than those in other methodologies (like urine or oral fluid), emphasizing the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of all positive screening findings is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples that test presumptively positive are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated according to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly called "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle situated beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Livingston, TN
Hair testing surpasses traditional urine tests with superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair analysis captures a broader detection window and resists tampering, ensuring minimal chances for manipulation, which presents clear advantages over urine screens.
Extended Detection Window in Livingston, TN
The hair follicle test's capacity to detect drug use spans up to 90 days, offering a comprehensive reflection of an individual’s substance history. This extended detection period provides employers with a detailed view of an applicant or employee's drug use patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Livingston, TN
Hair follicle drug testing stands out with its tamper-resistant qualities, curbing risks of sample adulteration. Its design secures reliable and indisputable results, setting it apart as an inviolable method of drug screening.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Livingston, TN
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures quick and hassle-free access across the nation. Whether local or nationwide, the availability of facilities offers convenience for all testing needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Livingston, TN
The hair follicle testing procedure emphasizes simplicity and confidentiality. From ordering to receiving results, the method addresses privacy concerns and promotes an easy-user experience, ensuring discretion throughout.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Livingston, TN
We provide competitive pricing structures alongside swift turnaround times, delivering quality services that equate to substantial value. Companies, regardless of size, benefit from our efficient and cost-effective testing approaches.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Livingston, TN
Hair follicle drug tests offer a high degree of precision, detecting substance use with remarkable speed and accuracy. These tests are unmatched in their ability to identify a wide range of substances efficiently, providing employers and other individuals with reliable insights into substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Livingston, TN
Pronounced compliance with drug-free policies is achievable through hair follicle testing, minimizing legal pitfalls and fortifying workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind with this robust testing solution.
