Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Townsend, TN

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying substance use, including drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug consumption by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair shaft. When obtained near the scalp, this method allows for a detection period of up to about three months for drugs and alcohol. Hair is straightforward to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.

A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, the perfect quantity for both testing and confirmation. For EtG tests, additions, or tests beyond 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable amount of body hair can be used. By head hair, we mean only scalp hair. Body hair refers to all other types, including facial, axillary, etc.

Process Overview

The four primary stages in the laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

During Accessioning, the initial handling of a sample takes place within a laboratory’s framework. This process verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry not available through electronic chain of custody systems.

Screening is a preliminary check for potential drug use. Although Screening is an economical method to discount drug use for most samples, a positive result must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Samples that are tentatively positive necessitate a further confirmation step.

If a sample yields a presumptive positive at the Screening stage, additional hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis one of the more challenging methodologies.

Confirmation of a positive screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples are washed as necessary before confirmation. The full laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection timeline: Hair drug screening can reveal drug use for up to 90 days, unlike urine assessments which have a shorter timeframe.
• Challenging to falsify: Deceptively altering hair drug tests is notably difficult, leading to more precise results.
• Reflects usage patterns: It illustrates a history of drug consumption over time, not merely recent actions.

Limitations:

• Lacks detection of current use: Roughly 5-7 days are needed for drugs to be detectable within hair after consumption.
• Expense: Hair drug screening is often costlier than alternative testing methods.
• Inconsistencies in findings: Differences such as natural hair color and individual growth rates can impact the concentration of drug traces in hair.

Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests", the assessment examines the hair strand, not the follicle under the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Choose Hair Over Urine Tests in Townsend, TN?

• Hair follicle testing in Townsend, TN, clearly outshines urine tests due to its superior detection and reliability.
• Unlike standard urine tests, hair testing provides an extensive detection window and is less prone to tampering, ensuring authentic results.

Extended Detection Window

Longer Detection Window in Townsend, TN

• In Townsend, TN, hair follicle testing offers employers a deep insight into an individual’s substance use history, monitoring up to 90 days back.
• This extended period grants a thorough overview, assisting in making informed decisions based on a comprehensive substance use profile.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Reducing Adulteration Risks with Hair Testing in Townsend, TN

• Hair follicle tests in Townsend, TN, are known for their tamper-resistant nature, ensuring sample integrity.
• The process eliminates the chances of sample manipulation, delivering trustworthy and accurate drug testing results.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Testing Convenience in Townsend, TN

• With numerous testing locations, including Townsend, TN, accessing hair follicle testing is both quick and easy.
• The convenience of our nationwide centers guarantees hassle-free services to those in need of reliable drug testing solutions.

Simple, Confidential Process

Confidential and Simple Hair Testing in Townsend, TN

• Experience a streamlined drug testing process in Townsend, TN, characterized by simplicity and confidentiality.
• From ordering to receiving results, the entire process respects privacy, ensuring a smooth experience for all involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Cost-Effective and Rapid Hair Testing in Townsend, TN

• Offering competitive rates and quick turnarounds, hair testing in Townsend, TN, provides businesses with unparalleled value.
• Quick processing times and affordable pricing make it an ideal solution for companies aiming for efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Speed and Accuracy of Hair Follicle Tests in Townsend, TN

• In Townsend, TN, the precision of hair follicle tests is unmatched. Businesses and individuals alike benefit from their swift and accurate detection capabilities.
• With hair testing, results are not only fast but provide a high level of accuracy in identifying the presence of drugs. This precision ensures confidence in the results provided.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employer Assurance through Hair Follicle Testing in Townsend, TN

• Employers in Townsend, TN, achieve compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing, ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
• This method minimizes legal concerns while promoting a safe and drug-free work environment.

Drug Testing Near Townsend, TN

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