Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers in the hair fibers as they grow, hair can offer a comprehensive story of alcohol and substance use over time. When sourced near the scalp, hair samples can reveal alcohol and drug use patterns for up to approximately three months. This method is easy to collect, hard to tamper with, and straightforward to send for analysis.
To ensure accurate screening and verification, a 1.5-inch hair sample with about 200 strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) from the area nearest to the scalp is required, totaling 100mg. In instances involving EtG, add-ons, or more complex tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair isn't accessible, equivalent body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain strictly to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in the lab analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample's preliminary handling in a lab's system occurs, which includes checking that the sample's packaging and transport were correct, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any remaining data requirements that aren't covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for the presence of abused substances. Although Screening serves as a cost-efficient method to exclude drug use in most cases, any positive indication must be verified for legality in court. Samples suggesting a positive result in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should Screening suggest a positive result, additional hair is retrieved from the initial sample for the Extraction process. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive results from screening are further validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing necessary before confirmation. The complete lab procedure, from intake to confirmation, is rigorously assessed to align with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly misnamed "hair follicle tests", the examination analyzes the hair strands, not the scalp-residing follicles.
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy and reliability in Shepherd, TN. Hair tests can identify drugs or alcohol usage over a longer duration, providing a comprehensive evaluation. This method is favored for its higher reliability and ability to verify past substance use patterns effectively.
Hair follicle testing provides an extended detection window of up to 90 days in Shepherd, TN. This enables employers to see a broader drug use history of an applicant or employee. Such comprehensive results offer a more detailed insight into potential substance usage, aiding in informed decision-making.
In Shepherd, TN, hair follicle tests are renowned for their tamper-resistant nature, which minimizes the chances of sample manipulation. The collection process is designed to yield reliable and unquestionable results, ensuring the integrity of the test outcomes is upheld.
We offer convenient testing locations with services available across the nation, including Shepherd, TN. With widespread centers, we provide quick, easy access to professional testing services, ensuring clients receive hassle-free support.
In Shepherd, TN, the process of ordering, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential. By addressing privacy concerns, this method guarantees that data is handled with utmost respect, ensuring a simple and user-friendly experience.
Providing competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times in Shepherd, TN, hair follicle testing delivers exceptional value. Companies of all sizes benefit from our affordable options, reassuring peace of mind while receiving timely results.
The precision and speed of hair follicle drug tests in Shepherd, TN, make them highly effective. These evaluations can efficiently detect substance consumption, ensuring accuracy. With a streamlined process, results are generated rapidly, making them a convenient choice for swift decisions.
Employers in Shepherd, TN, can ensure compliance with drug-free workplaces through hair follicle testing. This approach diminishes legal risks and boosts workplace safety. By incorporating these tests, organizations promote a safer and more compliant work environment.
