Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a timeline of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When taken near the scalp, hair can indicate drug and alcohol use for as long as three months. The collection process is straightforward, the sample is relatively challenging to tamper with, and shipping is convenient.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising around 200 strands of hair (about the size of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp provides 100 mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150 mg of the sample is suggested. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the sample is advisable. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be collected. Reference to head hair specifies only scalp hair, while body hair includes all other body hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This process includes confirming that the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data input not encompassed by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to exclude drug usage for most samples, a positive screening result must be confirmed to be legally viable. Samples that test positive during Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample tests positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the main specimen and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex methodology to execute.
Any positive screening results are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples testing positive are washed prior to confirmation as necessary. The entire laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the actual test evaluates the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the skin.
Compared to traditional urine testing, hair follicle tests in Bothwell, UT, offer unmatched accuracy and reliability. These tests go beyond standard methods by providing a deeper insight into drug use history. Hair testing stands out by detecting substances up to 90 days ago, vastly outperforming the limited 3-5 day window of urine tests. This thoroughness ensures a more complete picture of an individual's drug usage trends.
Extended Detection Window: Hair follicle testing's superior detection window, reaching up to 90 days, is a prime advantage in Bothwell, UT. It allows employers to thoroughly evaluate an individual's substance history over time. This unparalleled length offers a detailed perspective that short-term testing methods simply cannot match, catering to businesses that prioritize comprehensive screening for maintaining workplace safety.
One of the most compelling reasons to choose hair follicle testing in Bothwell, UT, is its resilience against tampering. The process naturally minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, providing results that are both trustworthy and verifiable.
It sets a benchmark for integrity in drug testing, ensuring that the results reflect true substance use without interference or manipulation.
Bothwell, UT, benefits from convenient access to numerous testing centers across the nation. This expansive network guarantees seamless service, with locations that are easy to reach and offer prompt appointments. The widespread availability of these facilities simplifies the logistics of getting tested, converting potential obstacles into effortless procedures for all parties involved.
Streamlined and Private Process: The process for hair follicle testing in Bothwell, UT, is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. The straightforward steps from ordering the test to obtaining the results ensure ease of use while addressing privacy concerns comprehensively. Clients can expect a smooth, stress-free experience in a secure environment that prioritizes their discretion.
Offering competitive pricing, the hair follicle testing services in Bothwell, UT, provide exemplary value alongside swift turnaround times. The affordable rates make these essential services accessible to companies of varied sizes, ensuring that businesses can implement necessary safety protocols without straining their budgets. This balance of cost-effectiveness and rapid results delivers peace of mind for organizational leaders.
Fast and Precise Outcomes: In Bothwell, UT, hair follicle testing provides rapid and reliable results. Known for its speed in delivering precise substance detection, it outshines other methods in accuracy. The technology involved ensures that individuals receive dependable information, vital for making informed decisions.
Professionals appreciate its efficiency, contributing to a swift assessment process that meets tight timelines without compromising detail.
Assured Compliance and Peace of Mind: For employers in Bothwell, UT, hair follicle testing ensures strict adherence to drug-free workplace policies. Its reliability reduces legal vulnerabilities and promotes a culture of safety and accountability. By incorporating these tests, businesses can confidently foster environments that prioritize health and compliance, mitigating risks associated with drug-related incidents.
