Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. The long-term history provided by hair arises from its ability to capture biomarkers in its growing strands. A sample taken near the scalp can reflect drug and alcohol usage for up to about three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-proof, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch section containing roughly 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil) taken near the scalp usually yields 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional analyses, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, body hair in an equivalent amount can be used. When mentioning head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair. All other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.) are classified as body hair.
Process Overview
There are four primary phases in the lab processing of drug tests: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of processing a sample within a lab's system, which involves confirming that the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not provided by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a quick preliminary evaluation for drug abuse. While Screening economically eliminates negative results in most cases, any positive detected requires confirmation for it to be legally admissible. Any samples flagged as presumptive positive in Screening need further confirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, additional hair from the original sample is used for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for hair drug testing's complexity.
Confirmation for positive screening outcomes employs methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS, with presumptive positive samples washed before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the frequent label "hair follicle tests", this test examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In comparing hair follicle tests to urine tests in Megargel, TX, hair testing offers superior detection of drug use. It not only identifies substances consumed over a longer span but also provides more accurate insights. Traditional urine tests lack the comprehensive reliability of hair testing, making it a preferred choice for precise drug use identification.
Employers in Megargel, TX, benefit from hair follicle testing's extended detection capability. Covering up to 90 days, this method offers detailed substance use history, unlike shorter detection windows of urine tests. This allows businesses to make informed decisions regarding past drug use, highlighting the long-term advantages of hair testing.
The hair follicle testing method in Megargel, TX, is known for being tamper-resistant. Samples collected are safeguarded against adulteration, ensuring authenticity. This provides reliable, unquestionable outcomes and peace of mind, making it the test of choice for those looking to prevent sample manipulation.
With nationwide coverage, Accredited Drug Testing centers extend convenient access to testing facilities, including Megargel, TX. These well-distributed locations ensure that clients experience quick and easy scheduling, minimizing disruption to daily activities. The accessibility of our services simplifies the testing process.
Testing in Megargel, TX, with Accredited Drug Testing promises a simple, confidential process. From ordering to receiving results, the clarity and discretion offered prioritize personal privacy. Clients can confidently navigate the testing phases, assured of their ease and comprehensive confidentiality safeguards.
Accredited Drug Testing in Megargel, TX, prides itself on competitive pricing and swift turnaround times. Our focus on affordability ensures businesses of all sizes benefit from our services. With quick results, companies gain the advantage of both cost-effective testing and timely data, enhancing overall workplace safety.
Hair follicle testing in Megargel, TX, is known for its fast and precise outcomes. This method surpasses traditional tests with its ability to quickly detect substance use. For those seeking reliability, hair tests offer unmatched accuracy, ensuring that results reflect true usage patterns and aiding in prompt decision-making for employers and agencies.
Ensuring workplace safety and compliance with company policies is crucial in Megargel, TX. Hair follicle testing supports this by offering reliable screenings that mitigate legal risks. Employers gain confidence, knowing that these thorough tests maintain the integrity of a drug-free environment, contributing to a safer workplace.
