Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The use of hair testing has emerged as an effective approach for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a critical record of long-term drug and alcohol use, capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. Hair collected near the scalp can offer an approximate three-month detection span for drugs and alcohol. This method of collection is straightforward, challenging to alter, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) cut near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and tests beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. Using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample is recommended. If scalp hair cannot be used, a similar quantity of body hair can be collected. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step, integrating the sample into the lab's system. This step confirms that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts an initial assessment for drugs of abuse. While it is an economical way to dismiss drug use in many cases, a positive screening needs confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that show a presumptive positive result in Screening need further confirmation.
For samples that test presumptively positive in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. In this stage, drugs are separated from the hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening one of the more complex methodologies to execute.
Positive screening results must be confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptively positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The comprehensive lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite commonly being called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Cunningham, TX
Hair follicle tests offer superior detection capabilities compared to traditional urine analyses. They ensure a more reliable and comprehensive analysis, capturing substance use over extended periods. This method's accuracy surpasses that of urine testing, providing an invaluable tool in maintaining stringent drug-free environments and policies.
Extended Detection Window in Cunningham, TX
When it comes to providing a thorough overview of an individual's substance use history, hair follicle tests shine. With a detection window extending up to 90 days, these tests supply employers with detailed insight into an employee or candidate's past drug usage, aiding in informed decision-making. This extended period is unmatched by shorter-term testing methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Cunningham, TX
Hair follicle testing significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration. The collected samples remain unchanged and uncontaminated, ensuring dependable and unquestionable results. This method's resistance to tampering guarantees that the data retrieved is accurate and reflective of the individual's substance use, providing peace of mind for employers and legal entities alike.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Cunningham, TX
With testing facilities spread nationwide, including in Cunningham, TX, Accredited Drug Testing makes access to sophisticated testing services both quick and straightforward. This widespread availability ensures that clients can effortlessly reach our facilities, enjoying the simplicity and efficiency that accompanies our testing services.
Simple, Confidential Process in Cunningham, TX
The process of ordering and undergoing a hair follicle drug test is designed with simplicity and confidentiality in mind. Our straightforward procedure and privacy assurances mean that clients can engage with our services comfortably, knowing their information is secure and their experience unencumbered by unnecessary complexity.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Cunningham, TX
Cost-effective pricing and rapid result delivery distinguish our hair follicle drug testing services. With competitive rates and expedite processing, we provide significant value, accommodating businesses of various sizes. Clients receive their results promptly, enhancing decision-making and resource management.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Cunningham, TX
The precision of hair follicle drug tests lies in their ability to swiftly deliver results. These tests are remarkably accurate, ensuring that any substance use is detected with certainty. This high level of accuracy ensures that no substance goes undetected, giving stakeholders the information they need without delay. The speed at which results are available further contributes to operational efficiency.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Cunningham, TX
By integrating hair follicle tests, employers ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, thereby minimizing legal issues and promoting safety. These tests assure compliance, offering employers peace of mind that their workspace policies are effectively enforced, helping to sustain a secure and productive environment for all employees.
