Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has garnered recognition as an effective method for detecting the use of drugs and alcohol. Within the growing hair strand, biomarkers get trapped, providing a long-term record of drug and alcohol use. When taken near the scalp, a hair sample can reveal alcohol and drug presence for a period of up to about three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively difficult to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
Securing a sample of approximately 1.5 inches and about 200 strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will supply 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or analyses beyond 10 panels, it is advisable to gather 150mg of the hair sample. We advise using a jeweler's scale to measure the specimen weight. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar amount of body hair can be taken. Life when we mention head hair, we mean scalp hair specifically. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The fundamental steps in lab processing of drug test results consist of Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the primary processing of a specimen into the lab's system, ensuring proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry that electronic methods didn’t cover.
Screening performs an initial fast assessment for drug abuse. Although it offers a cost-effective method to exclude drug use in many specimens, confirmation is imperative for court admissibility of positive screens. Samples indicated as presumptively positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
In cases where samples appear positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for preparation during Extraction. Drugs are retrieved from hair in this stage at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods validate any positive screening outcomes. Presumptive positive samples undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The complete lab process, spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strands, not the follicle located under the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests in Crowell, TX, the advantages are clear. Hair tests offer greater accuracy and reliability, detecting drugs long after they have been consumed. This sensitivity makes them an excellent choice over urine tests, which have a shorter detection window. Hair testing provides a more thorough and comprehensive assessment of drug use history.
In Crowell, TX, hair follicle testing offers an extended detection window, up to 90 days. This gives employers a detailed view of an individual's drug use history, surpassing the limited timeframe of urine tests. For decision-makers, such comprehensive insights enhance the overall understanding of an applicant or employee's substance habits.
Hair follicle tests in Crowell, TX, significantly minimize risks of sample tampering. Due to the complex nature of hair analysis, manipulating results becomes nearly impossible. This provides undeniable accuracy and reliability, assuring employers and authorities of legitimate outcomes and maintaining the integrity of the testing process.
Accredited Drug Testing in Crowell, TX, offers exceptional convenience through its nationwide centers. The strategically placed locations ensure seamless access to testing services, making the process effortless for residents. Quick, easy, and hassle-free testing availability keeps the testing experience streamlined and efficient for everyone involved.
In Crowell, TX, the process of hair follicle testing remains straightforward and confidential. From ordering to collecting samples and receiving results, privacy and simplicity are paramount. This assures individuals of their privacy being respected while accessing precise testing services without the burden of unnecessary complexities.
With Accredited Drug Testing in Crowell, TX, affordable pricing and rapid result delivery are paramount. Our competitive pricing structure aligns with quick turnaround times, providing businesses with valuable testing solutions. Regardless of company size, our offerings deliver excellent value and support decision-making with fast results.
Hair follicle drug testing in Crowell, TX, stands out for its swift and precise results. Known for delivering accurate detection of substance use, this method guarantees dependable outcomes. The meticulous nature of hair testing ensures that individuals and organizations can rely on the results, providing a clear picture of substance use with minimal waiting time.
Utilizing hair follicle testing in Crowell, TX, enables employers to uphold compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This proficient testing method not only reduces potential legal risks but also promotes a safer environment. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their testing procedures align with rigorous standards, protecting company interests.