Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands can archive an extended history of substance use by encapsulating biomarkers within the fibers of hair as it grows. When obtained near the scalp, hair offers an approximate detection period of up to 90 days for alcohol and other drugs. Collection is straightforward, the likelihood of tampering is low, and shipping is efficient.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for measurement is suggested. If scalp hair is scarce, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it exclusively refers to scalp hair. Conversely, body hair encompasses all other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
In hair testing, the primary steps are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of the sample into the laboratory’s processing system. This step ensures the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigns a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any outstanding data entry absent from electronic custody systems.
Screening entails an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. It is an economical approach to preliminarily eliminate drug use from most samples, but a positive screen needs verification to hold up in legal circumstances. Presumptively positive screens necessitate additional validation.
Should a sample prove presumptively positive during Screening, more hair from the original sample is gathered for Preparation and Extraction. Drugs are extracted from hair at lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which elevates the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive screening results are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS procedures. Presumptive positives undergo a wash prior to Confirmation. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: The term "hair follicle tests" is often used, but the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why is hair follicle testing preferred over urine tests in Walnut Grove, TN? The superior accuracy and reliability of hair tests come from their ability to capture a broader and more consistent detection window. Hair tests are less susceptible to manipulation, ensuring true results. Unlike urine tests, hair sampling provides comprehensive data, making it ideal for situations demanding precision and certainty.
The primary benefit of hair follicle testing in Walnut Grove, TN is its extended detection window, capturing drug usage for up to 90 days. This extensive period enables employers to thoroughly evaluate an individual's substance habits, beyond what shorter-term tests like urine can provide. Hair testing offers valuable insights into long-term drug-consumption patterns.
In Walnut Grove, TN, the hair follicle testing method is renowned for being tamper-resistant. By significantly reducing the possibility of sample adulteration, these tests deliver reliable and unquestionable results. Employers and authorities can trust the integrity of hair testing outcomes, knowing that the chance for altering the sample is nearly eliminated.
Residents and businesses in Walnut Grove, TN benefit from the vast network of our nationwide testing centers, making drug testing convenient and accessible. These centers are strategically located, enabling prompt and easy access to hair testing services without unnecessary hassle, ensuring that testing needs are addressed swiftly and efficiently.
The process for hair follicle testing in Walnut Grove, TN is remarkably simple and confidential. Each step, from ordering the test to receiving results, prioritizes privacy and convenience. Clients can feel assured that their procedures and outcomes are handled discreetly, facilitating a stress-free experience for all involved.
In Walnut Grove, TN, we offer hair follicle testing at very competitive prices with swift turnaround. This ensures that companies, regardless of size, receive maximum value for their investment. By balancing affordability with fast results, we provide a drug testing solution that meets both financial and operational needs.
In Walnut Grove, TN, hair follicle tests stand out for their exceptional precision and speed. These tests are designed to deliver highly accurate substance detection, making them a reliable choice. With a quick turnaround time, individuals and employers can promptly access results, ensuring that decisions related to drug use are based on dependable and swift analyses.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Walnut Grove, TN grants employers compliance with drug-free workplace standards, securing peace of mind. This method not only ensures adherence to legal and safety regulations but also helps mitigate potential legal liabilities, promoting a safer and more secure work environment for everyone.
