Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as a significant method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair serves as a historical record by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal usage of alcohol and drugs for a period of up to roughly 90 days. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing about 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) from close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the perfect amount for both screening and confirmation. For tests including EtG, add-ons, or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is preferable. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If no scalp hair is accessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be obtained. The term 'head hair' strictly refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning constitutes the initial sample integration into a lab system. This step involves ensuring the sample is sealed and transported correctly, creating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data entry not handled by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary examination for illegal drugs. While Screening is an efficient way to dismiss drug use in most cases, any positive result must be verified to be legally valid. Samples with a presumed positive result during Screening need a further confirmation process.
For any presumed positive sample in the Screening phase, extra hair is extracted from the original sample for further Extraction. In this phase, drug compounds are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug analysis one of the most challenging techniques to execute.
Verification of any positive screening outcomes is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples showing presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The whole laboratory method from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis actually involves the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing stands out for its superior accuracy over traditional urine tests in High Island, TX. Employers and authorities prefer it due to its extended detection period, offering a clearer view of an individual's substance use history. Unlike urine tests, hair tests provide a broader window of time, increasing trust and reliability in results.
Benefits of Hair Testing:
For employers in High Island, TX, the extended detection window of hair follicle testing is invaluable. With a capacity to identify drug usage over the past 90 days, it offers a comprehensive review of an individual's drug history. This broader scope aids in informed decision-making and maintaining a drug-free environment.
Why Choose Hair Testing:
Hair follicle testing in High Island, TX, is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature. The collection process reduces the chances of sample adulteration, making it a reliable method for detection. Employers and legal systems benefit from its undeniable accuracy, ensuring trust in the results obtained.
Key Features:
Convenience is key with our nationwide testing centers, including local options in High Island, TX. We ensure all individuals can easily access our services with minimal hassle. Our strategic locations guarantee a seamless testing experience, making it easy to prioritize health and safety needs.
Location Benefits:
The hair follicle testing process in High Island, TX, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving your results, every step is handled with care, respecting your privacy while delivering prompt answers. Our process ensures that your concerns for discretion and simplicity are met.
Process Highlights:
Hair follicle testing in High Island, TX, is both affordable and fast, offering excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Competitive pricing combined with rapid turnaround times ensures that companies receive cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or trustworthiness.
Cost and Speed:
In High Island, TX, hair follicle drug tests deliver precision and rapid results, making them a preferred choice. Thanks to their ability to detect a wide range of substances, these tests provide definitive insights into an individual's substance use over time. Their efficiency in processing ensures timely results, crucial for businesses and individuals needing swift answers.
Advantages:
Utilizing hair follicle testing in High Island, TX, offers compliance with workplace and legal drug-free policies, ensuring employee safety and reducing legal risks. By adopting such rigorous standards, employers can maintain security and legal compliance, offering peace of mind for all involved parties.
Compliance Benefits: