Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Using hair as a testing medium has become increasingly recognized for its efficacy in identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive record of substances by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they develop. When the hair is sampled near the scalp, it can offer a detection timeframe of up to nearly three months for various substances. The collection of hair is straightforward, challenging to manipulate, and convenient to transport.
An ideal sample consists of a 1.5-inch section of approximately 200 hair strands (roughly equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) located closest to the scalp, resulting in about 100mg of hair which is optimal for both screening and confirmation processes. For enhanced tests such as EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 categories, a 150mg sample is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is recommended. In the absence of scalp hair, a comparable quantity of body hair can be utilized. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses all other types, including facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing drug test results comprises four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the step where a sample is initially entered into the laboratory’s workflow. This phase involves confirming that the sample has been appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning it a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry not already addressed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails a preliminary examination for drugs of abuse. While this step is a cost-efficient method to dismiss most drug usage cases, a positively screened result requires confirmation to be legally valid. Any samples classified as presumptively positive during Screening need to undergo additional verification.
When a sample tests as presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, the concentration of drugs extracted from hair is significantly lower compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is among the most complex methods to execute.
Confirmation of any positive findings from the Screening process is carried out through methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Before confirmation, all samples marked as presumptively positive are washed accordingly. The complete laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation standards of ISO / IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Hair follicle testing in Laureles, TX, offers superior advantages over traditional urine tests. Its enhanced detection accuracy makes it a reliable choice for capturing substance use history.
Employers find hair tests particularly valuable, as they cover a broader detection window than urine tests, capturing substance use patterns effectively over extended periods.
Laureles, TX, relies on hair follicle testing to unveil drug use history up to 90 days prior. This extended detection window offers employers a thorough view of applicants' or employees' substance use.
With a 3-month window, hair follicle tests give a comprehensive understanding of drug habits, ensuring informed decision-making and workplace safety.
Hair follicle testing in Laureles, TX, is a preferred method due to its tamper-resistant nature. It ensures that the collected samples remain unchanged and provide genuine results.
The difficulty in adulterating hair samples makes them a trustworthy option for precise drug testing, reducing doubt and increasing result reliability.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient testing locations across Laureles, TX, and nationwide. This network ensures quick and hassle-free access to drug testing services for all.
Our widespread availability means individuals and employers can confidently find a testing site nearby, streamlining the testing process with minimal effort.
In Laureles, TX, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential. From ordering to results, every step prioritizes user privacy and convenience.
Clients appreciate the ease of use and discretion provided throughout the testing process, ensuring peace of mind and confidentiality from start to finish.
Accredited Drug Testing in Laureles, TX, offers cost-effective pricing and rapid turnaround times. Companies appreciate the value offered without compromising on service quality.
Our competitive pricing structures ensure businesses of all sizes can access reliable drug testing, with results delivered promptly, enhancing overall satisfaction.
In Laureles, TX, hair follicle drug tests are lauded for delivering quick, accurate outcomes. They are designed to detect substance use with high precision, making them a preferred choice for reliable testing.
Employers benefit from the swift analysis of hair tests, ensuring faster decision-making processes based on the results. Their ability to provide detailed and fast information is unmatched in drug testing.
Employers in Laureles, TX, achieve peace of mind with hair follicle tests, ensuring compliance with drug-free policies. It helps mitigate legal risks and enhances workplace security.
Adopting hair testing supports a culture of safety, reducing substance-related incidents and maintaining company integrity and workforce well-being.
