Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers in the strands of developing hair, hair offers a comprehensive history of drug and alcohol use. When gathered near the scalp, hair can deliver a detection timeframe of up to roughly 3 months for both alcohol and other drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands, equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil and situated closest to the scalp, can yield 100mg of hair, an ideal amount for screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, ancillary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is beneficial to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is nonexistent, a similar quantity of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair relate solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test is comprised of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory's system. During this process, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped is crucial, as well as assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) and completing remaining data entry that might be missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening comprises an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, confirmation of a positive screen is necessary for admissibility in court. Any samples that show presumptive positivity during Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
In instances where a sample shows presumptive positivity at the Screening phase, additional hair from the initial specimen is prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are retrieved from hair in much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of conducting hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity undergo washing as necessary before confirmation. The entire laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined in accordance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation standards under ISO / IEC 17025.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though frequently labeled as "hair follicle tests," the examination targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Slocum, TX
Hair follicle testing outmatches traditional urine tests by offering enhanced accuracy and reliability in detection. Hair tests aren't limited by short detection windows, thus extending the period of drug usage identification and providing a clearer picture of a person's substance use habits compared to urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Slocum, TX
One of the main advantages of hair follicle testing is its capability to detect drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This prolonged detection window supplies employers with a comprehensive review of an individual's substance usage history, making it an invaluable resource for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Slocum, TX
The hair follicle drug test is markedly resistant to tampering, ensuring the credibility of the results. This robustness against adulteration makes it a trusted method in sectors where reliable and irrefutable drug testing is essential.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Slocum, TX
The widespread accessibility of our testing centers across the nation guarantees convenient, swift, and hassle-free service access for all individuals and organizations. With local options in Slocum, residents can easily obtain necessary testing without undue travel or delays.
Simple, Confidential Process in Slocum, TX
Our straightforward and private method for managing testing ensures ease and confidentiality, relieving concerns about privacy. From ordering, through sample collection, to receiving results, the process is built around maintaining privacy while ensuring simplicity in service.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Slocum, TX
With competitive pricing frameworks and rapid results, we offer exceptional value and peace of mind, regardless of the organization's size. The affordability and speed of service cater to diverse needs, ensuring that employers receive valuable services within feasible financial and time constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Slocum, TX
Hair follicle drug testing ensures precision and swiftness, significantly enhancing accuracy in detecting substance use. The quick turn-around time and precise results make it a preferred choice for employers and individuals, reflecting its capability to deliver dependable results rapidly without compromising the accuracy required for effective drug screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Slocum, TX
By utilizing hair follicle testing, employers can maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies, diminishing legal liabilities and bolstering safety measures. This compliance fosters peace of mind, knowing that effective steps are being taken to secure a secure working environment.
