Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Recognized as an adept approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair testing stands out. Hair captures a comprehensive timeline by embedding biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. A sample taken near the scalp can reveal up to an estimated 3-month detection span for substances like alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and simple to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch section consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (around the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp results in approximately 100mg of hair, which is an ideal quantity for analysis and verification. For enhanced tests, such as EtG or assays surpassing 10-panel tests, 150mg of the sample is advised. It's recommended to use a jeweler's scale for weighing. In situations where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. When referring to head hair, this pertains specifically to scalp hair. Body hair denotes all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of drug test outcomes comprises four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary phase where a sample is introduced into a laboratory's system. This phase includes validating that the sample was sealed and transported properly, assigning it a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and finalizing any additional data entry not supported by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening serves as an initial assessment for substance abuse. It is a cost-efficient method to typically exclude substance usage in most samples, yet a positive result needs confirmation for legal validity. Samples yielding a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate additional verification.
In cases where a sample shows presumptively positive during Screening, further hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, the substances are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations than alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of a positive screening outcome is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) criteria for Hair and in line with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on analyzing the hair strand itself, excluding the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
In Barksdale, TX, hair follicle testing provides a clear advantage over traditional urine tests. The ability to detect substance use over an extended period makes it a reliable choice for employers who prioritize precision. Unlike urine tests, hair testing covers up to 90 days, offering a comprehensive view of an individual's substance history.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing sets it apart in Barksdale, TX. By capturing drug use history for up to 90 days, employers receive valuable insights into applicants or employees' past substance habits. This comprehensive view aids in maintaining workplace integrity and safety.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing offers significant advantages in Barksdale, TX. This method substantially reduces the possibility of sample tampering, ensuring that the results are trustworthy and unfalsifiable. Employers can rely on the integrity of the test to make crucial employment decisions.
Barksdale, TX enjoys the advantage of convenient access to testing services with our nationwide centers. These centers provide hassle-free and prompt testing, making it easy for both individuals and companies to undergo necessary drug screenings without delays.
The straightforward and confidential process offered in Barksdale, TX for hair follicle testing ensures ease of use. From ordering to receiving results, the process is designed to prioritize privacy and user-friendliness, addressing any concerns about discretion and simplicity.
In Barksdale, TX, our affordable pricing structure coupled with rapid turnaround times offers companies exceptional value. Employers benefit from cost-effective solutions without sacrificing quality, ensuring peace of mind and efficient management of their testing programs.
Hair follicle drug testing is distinguished by its speed, accuracy, and reliability in Barksdale, TX. It delivers precise results quickly, allowing employers and organizations to make informed decisions. The test's design ensures high accuracy, eliminating doubts about substance use detection.
Adopting hair follicle testing in Barksdale, TX helps employers comply with drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal exposure and enhances workplace safety, granting peace of mind. With hair testing, companies reinforce their commitment to upholding a secure and compliant work environment.
