Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair screening is recognized as an effective method for identifying usage of drugs and alcohol. By holding biomarkers within the fibers, hair offers a long-term log of alcohol and drug use. When taken near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol usage for up to around three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, it's hard to alter, and shipping is uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the size of a #2 pencil) taken nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is ideal for testing and confirmation purposes. When conducting EtG, additional, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advisable. It's beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, the same amount of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (like facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial handling phase of a specimen in a lab’s system. This stage ensures the specimen was correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any missing data not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial evaluation for substance abuse. Although a cost-effective method for negating drug usage in most samples, positive screens must be verified for legal admissibility. Samples testing presumptively positive in Screening demand subsequent confirmation.
In cases where Screening yields a presumptive positive, further hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn from hair, albeit at significantly lower concentrations than other techniques (such as urine or saliva), highlighting the complexity of hair drug screening.
Any positive outcomes from Screening proceed to Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Pre-confirmation, all presumptive positive samples undergo required washing. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire laboratory process is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation alongside ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually targets the hair strand instead of the sub-scalp follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Surpasses Urine Testing in Seagraves, TX
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle tests provide a longer detection window and higher reliability. While urine tests capture recent use, hair analyses reveal substance use over months, ensuring more comprehensive insights into an individual's drug habits. Hair testing is the preferred method for those seeking superior accuracy in Seagraves.
Extended Detection Window in Seagraves, TX
Hair follicle testing excels in providing a broader look at an individual's drug history, capable of revealing substance use for up to 90 days. This makes it a preferred choice for employers interested in applicant or employee behavior over time, offering a detailed overview unattainable through shorter-window tests like urine analyses.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Seagraves, TX
Hair follicle drug tests minimize the risk of sample tampering, ensuring reliable results. Traditional methods are more vulnerable to manipulation, but the nature of hair testing makes it nearly impossible to cheat. This tamper-resistant approach provides Seagraves employers with confidence in the accuracy and validity of test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Seagraves, TX
Our extensive network of testing centers simplifies the process, offering easy access to hair follicle drug testing. Whether in Seagraves or nationwide, our facilities provide quick and hassle-free services, ensuring customers can access the testing they need without inconvenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Seagraves, TX
The process of conducting a hair follicle drug test is straightforward and discreet. From ordering to sample collection and receiving results, privacy is prioritized. Ensuring confidentiality and ease, this seamless process in Seagraves allows individuals to conduct tests while maintaining their privacy and peace of mind.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Seagraves, TX
Our competitive pricing and swift turnaround times make hair follicle testing accessible and valuable for businesses of any size. Offering economical options, we ensure Seagraves companies receive timely results without sacrificing quality, providing cost-effective measures aligned with their business needs.
Quick and Accurate Results in Seagraves, TX
Hair follicle testing offers a fast and precise method for detecting drug use. The process ensures highly accurate results, allowing for quick identification of substance abuse. With rapid processing times, individuals and businesses in Seagraves can rely on the efficiency and reliability of this testing method for uncovering substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Seagraves, TX
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies, aiding in reducing legal exposure and promoting safety. By choosing hair testing, Seagraves businesses can maintain compliance, mitigate risks, and foster a secure working environment where employees' well-being is prioritized.
