Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for detecting the consumption of drugs and alcohol. The hair strands capture biomarkers within their fibers during their growth, providing a prolonged history of drug and alcohol usage. By collecting samples near the scalp, a detection period of around three months for drugs and alcohol is achievable. Hair samples are straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and easy to transport.
Collecting a sample of 1.5 inches consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp area provides a 100mg sample, which is optimal for screening and validation. When conducting EtG, additional tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advisable. It’s advisable to weigh the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be accessed, a corresponding quantity of body hair can be used as a substitute. The term ‘head hair’ specifically refers to scalp hair, while ‘body hair’ encompasses all other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The processing of a drug test result in a laboratory involves four fundamental stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the initial sample processing takes place, incorporating verifications of proper sealing and shipment, the assignment of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any additional data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is conducted to swiftly identify potential drugs of abuse. Although Screening provides a cost-effective method to assess drug usage across most samples, a positive outcome necessitates confirmation for any court-related admissibility. Samples presumed positive in Screening require secondary confirmation.
In the event of a presumptively positive result during Screening, additional samples are extracted from the original collection and prepared for the Extraction phase. During Extraction, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than methods such as urine or oral fluid analysis, highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening methodology.
Confirmation of any positive Screening results is carried out through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to Confirmation as necessary. The complete lab procedure, ranging from Accessioning to Confirmation, is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and conforms to ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Tests Excel Over Urine Tests
In Rolling Meadows, TX, hair follicle testing stands out against urine testing. Its extended detection window and high reliability make it preferable, offering a more accurate reflection of long-term substance use.
Companies, courts, and professionals opting for hair tests experience reduced discrepancies and enhanced assurance in drug screening processes.
Extensive Detection Windows
In Rolling Meadows, TX, hair follicle testing allows substance use detection for up to 90 days. Employers gain comprehensive insights into an individual's substance habits, offering a wider perspective than short-term urine tests.
The prolonged monitoring period aids in making informed decisions regarding potential hires or current employee assessments.
Reliable and Tamper-Resistant Testing
Hair follicle tests in Rolling Meadows, TX, significantly mitigate the risks of sample tampering. The method's inherent resistance to adulteration ensures authenticity and credibility in test results.
The observed collection and analysis process empower agencies with foolproof data, fostering trust in drug testing efficiency.
Convenient Testing Anywhere
The wide array of testing centers in Rolling Meadows, TX offers unparalleled convenience. With nationally widespread locations, accessing our services is straightforward and swift.
For businesses and individuals, this network means reduced wait times and headache-free test facilitation, promoting seamless drug screening experiences.
Effortless and Private Process
In Rolling Meadows, TX, the hair follicle testing follows a simple, confidential process. It respects individual's privacy at every stage, from order placement to result reception.
The streamlined approach answers privacy concerns, providing stakeholders with a dignified testing experience.
Value-Driven Pricing and Speed
Affordable pricing in Rolling Meadows, TX, complements the swift turnaround in hair follicle testing. The cost-effective services offer significant advantages, irrespective of company size.
Businesses benefit from rapid results and cost-effective measures, ensuring a streamlined process eliminating unnecessary concerns.
Speed and Precision in Hair Follicle Testing
In Rolling Meadows, TX, hair follicle drug testing excels with its rapid and precise analysis. The methodology's accuracy in identifying substance use ensures dependable results, securing its place as a superior choice.
The quick turnaround time of hair follicle tests guarantees timely results, benefiting employers and individuals alike by delivering reliable and efficient outcomes.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers
Hair follicle drug testing in Rolling Meadows, TX, helps business compliance with drug-free workplace mandates. It minimizes legal exposures while elevating safety standards through reliable screening practices.
Employers find peace of mind in adopting this stringent approach, securing their workforce against substance-related issues.
