Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair strands integrate a longitudinal history of substance consumption by incorporating biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand. When collected from near the scalp, hair can reveal drug or alcohol use over an approximate duration of three months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprised of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, deemed ideal for both preliminary tests and confirmatory analysis. For those requiring EtG, additional tests, and/or more than 10-panel tests, it is suggested to secure 150mg of the sample. Measuring the specimen with a jeweler’s scale is recommended. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair is acceptable. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types, such as facial and axillary.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four pivotal stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the onset of integrating the sample into the laboratory framework. This step verifies the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data input absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial brief review for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economical strategy to dismiss drug use in many samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation for legal acceptability. Samples deemed presumptively positive in Screening require verification through further analysis.
In the event of a presumptive positive result during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for preparation in the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are retrieved from hair at a lesser concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug screening.
Positive results arising from Screening undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. All samples indicating presumptive positivity undergo cleansing prior to confirmation if necessary. The comprehensive laboratory procedure spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation consistent with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Challenges:
Note: Commonly referenced as "hair follicle tests", the analysis conducted focuses on the hair strand itself, not the underlying follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bessmay, TX
Compared with traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing provides enhanced accuracy and reliability in detecting substance use. Its capacity to identify a broad array of substances over an extended period makes it a superior analytical tool. Employers seeking detailed insights into substance history regard it as invaluable.
Extended Detection Window in Bessmay, TX
Hair follicle testing's effectiveness lies in its ability to track substance use over a longer timeframe, up to 90 days. This broader detection window supplies employers with a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance consumption habits, assisting in informed decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bessmay, TX
Hair follicle testing dramatically reduces the risk of tampering, thanks to its unmodifiable nature. The method's robustness ensures the authenticity and integrity of the test results, providing peace of mind to both administrators and subjects alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bessmay, TX
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including those in Bessmay, TX, offers seamless access to hair follicle testing services. Whether local or nationwide, our facilities ensure a speedy and straightforward testing experience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bessmay, TX
The process for hair follicle drug testing is straightforward and highly confidential. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, every step ensures privacy and ease of use. Addressing privacy concerns provides clients with peace of mind during the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bessmay, TX
Our hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched value with competitive pricing and rapid result turnaround times. These benefits not only deliver excellent return on investment but also reassurance for businesses, large or small.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bessmay, TX
Hair follicle drug tests in Bessmay, TX, offer unparalleled precision and swiftness in substance detection. These tests ensure high levels of accuracy due to the comprehensive analysis of hair samples. The tests' remarkable sensitivity allows for consistent, trustworthy results, making it the top choice for those prioritizing reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bessmay, TX
Utilizing hair follicle tests guarantees that employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies. This not only minimizes legal liabilities but also significantly strengthens workplace safety, lifting a weight off employers’ shoulders by ensuring an environment conducive to productivity.