Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now viewed as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and substance usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, this method can reveal alcohol and drug use over roughly a 3-month period. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easily transported.
A 1.5-inch length comprising around 200 strands (equivalent to a #2 pencil’s thickness) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, and/or evaluations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advised. Accurate weighing of the sample on a jeweler’s scale is suggested. Where scalp hair cannot be obtained, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes facial, axillary, and other types.
Overview of the Process
The primary steps in processing a drug test result in a lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the lab’s system. This process includes confirming the proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any remaining data entry not provided by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient method for excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation to be legally admissible. All presumptive positive samples from Screening must be confirmed through additional analysis.
When a sample appears positive in the Screening phase, more hair is separated from the original specimen for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.
For any screening results that show positivity, Confirmation employs techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive specimens are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning through to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", it is the hair strand that is analyzed, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Keene, TX
When it comes to drug testing, hair follicle tests offer clear advantages over urine tests, particularly in terms of detection accuracy and dependability. Hair tests provide a longer detection window and are less susceptible to manipulation, making them a preferred choice in Keene, TX.
Extended Detection Window in Keene, TX
Hair follicle testing is advantageous for its ability to identify drug usage over an extended timeframe, typically up to 90 days. This gives employers in Keene, TX, a detailed and long-term picture of an individual's substance history, aiding in informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Keene, TX
One of the standout benefits of hair follicle testing is its resistance to tampering. This method significantly lowers the chances of sample adulteration, delivering dependable and authentic results for users in Keene, TX.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Keene, TX
The extensive network of our nationwide testing centers ensures easy access to efficient and stress-free drug testing services across Keene, TX, and beyond. This convenience boosts timely access for individuals and organizations alike.
Simple, Confidential Process in Keene, TX
The procedure for obtaining, conducting, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is straightforward and confidential. This ensures that privacy concerns are addressed for residents of Keene, TX, along with ease of use.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Keene, TX
Our hair follicle testing is competitively priced while maintaining quick result turnarounds, offering exceptional value for businesses of all sizes in Keene, TX.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Keene, TX
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and swiftness in detecting substance use. The process offers high reliability, ensuring no aspects of drug use are overlooked, especially compared to other testing options available in Keene, TX.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Keene, TX
Using hair follicle testing assures compliance with drug-free workplace policies. For employers in Keene, TX, it mitigates legal risks and fosters a safer professional environment, thus granting peace of mind.
