Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as a potent resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers an extended timeline of drug and alcohol history by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When gathered near the scalp, it can reveal a detection span of up to 3 months for drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and conveniently packed for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 strands (comparable to a #2 pencil) taken closest to the scalp produces 100mg, the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, and those beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale is suggested for weighing. If scalp hair is not available, a comparable portion of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The lab processing for drug test results involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the initial phase where a sample is incorporated into a lab's system. This includes verifying the seal and shipment integrity, assigning a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary rapid assessment for drug presence. Though Screening is cost-effective for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive finding requires confirmation for court admissibility. Presumptive positive samples in Screening demand further verification.
For samples flagged presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine, oral fluid), highlighting the difficulty in conducting hair drug tests.
Confirmation for any positive screening proceeds via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation, as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being termed "hair follicle tests," the exam actually analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Barrett, TX
Hair tests excel in detection accuracy and offer a longer detection period compared to traditional urine tests. Their superior reliability ensures comprehensive substance history.
Comparative Benefits in Barrett, TX
In contrast to urine tests, hair follicle tests reduce manipulation risks and provide a more holistic view of an individual's drug use history, proving invaluable for employers.
Longer Detection Windows in Barrett, TX
Hair follicle testing provides a detection period of up to 90 days, enabling employers to gain a thorough perspective on substance use history.
Comprehensive Histories in Barrett, TX
With their extended detection capability, hair tests offer invaluable insights into long-term substance behavior, equipping employers with the data needed for informed decisions.
Secure Testing Methods in Barrett, TX
Hair follicle tests significantly diminish the risks of sample tampering. Their robust methodology ensures reliable and indisputable results.
Unquestionable Reliability in Barrett, TX
The rigorous process associated with hair testing almost eliminates the possibility of adulteration, assuring results that stakeholders can trust without hesitation.
Accessible Testing Centers in Barrett, TX
Our extensive network of testing centers nationwide ensures that accessing services is seamless, making the process quick and straightforward.
Convenient Local Solutions in Barrett, TX
With easily reachable locations, our services offer both local residents and businesses hassle-free access to the testing they require.
Streamlined and Confidential Process in Barrett, TX
Our process is designed to be simple, ensuring confidentiality from order placement to receiving results, addressing privacy concerns effectively.
Ease of Use in Barrett, TX
Emphasizing user-friendliness, our procedure ensures that clients receive their results in a convenient and confidential manner, maintaining privacy throughout.
Competitive Pricing and Efficiency in Barrett, TX
Our pricing offers excellent value, paired with rapid turnaround times, benefiting businesses with cost-effective testing solutions.
Cost-Effective Solutions in Barrett, TX
With affordable rates and quick, precise results, our services ensure that companies of all sizes can confidently manage their drug testing requirements.
Fast and Precise Testing Outcomes in Barrett, TX
Hair follicle drug tests ensure swift and highly accurate results. Their precision in detecting various substances has made them the preferred choice for fast and reliable assessment.
Reliability in Barrett, TX
Utilizing hair follicle tests offers unmatched reliability, delivering accurate and prompt results that provide valuable insights into substance use, ensuring peace of mind.
Employer Compliance and Assurance in Barrett, TX
Hair follicle testing ensures employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal exposure while promoting safety.
Workplace Security in Barrett, TX
Incorporating hair tests into policies provides peace of mind to employers, ensuring compliance and significantly reducing potential risks associated with substance abuse.
