Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly regarded as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands encapsulate a prolonged record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When gathered near the scalp, hair samples can offer a detection timeframe for alcohol and drugs of up to roughly three months. Hair collection is straightforward, less susceptible to tampering, and easily transportable.
Collecting a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation procedures. For EtG, additional screening, and/or evaluations beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It's best to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair can't be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair is a suitable alternative. 'Head hair' specifically refers to scalp hair, while 'body hair' encompasses all other hair types (like facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The key phases in the lab processing of a drug test are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the sample's initial entry into a lab's system. This phase verifies the sample's proper sealing and transportation, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes supplementary data input not available through an electronic chain of custody infrastructure.
Screening entails carrying out a swift preliminary assessment for common drugs of abuse. Although cost-effective for excluding drug use across most samples, a positive screen demands confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples showing presumptive positives in Screening necessitate follow-up confirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug screening exceptionally challenging.
Positive screening results are verified through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS processes. All samples that show presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as required. The complete lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation falls under the scrutiny of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Is Superior to Urine Testing in Enosburg Falls, VT
Hair follicle tests offer unmatched accuracy and reliability compared to traditional urine tests. Their extended detection period and resistance to tampering make them the preferred choice, capturing a comprehensive substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Enosburg Falls, VT
Hair follicle testing provides a broader detection window, capturing substance use up to a 90-day period. This extended timeline gives a fuller picture of an individual's drug history, crucial for employer assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Enosburg Falls, VT
Minimize the risk of sample adulteration with hair follicle tests, renowned for their integrity. This reliable method ensures unquestionable results, reinforcing trust in the testing process.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Enosburg Falls, VT
Our network of nationwide testing centers offers easy access to hair follicle testing services. Benefit from swift and seamless service delivery, ensuring prompt testing without the hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Enosburg Falls, VT
Enjoy a straightforward and discreet testing process, from ordering to result retrieval. Our service emphasizes privacy and ease of use, addressing any concerns surrounding confidentiality and user-friendliness.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Enosburg Falls, VT
Our competitive pricing and swift result delivery ensure you receive exceptional value. Our quick turnaround times provide peace of mind, regardless of your company's size, ensuring efficiency in testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Enosburg Falls, VT
Experience quick and precise outcomes with hair follicle testing. These tests excel in detecting a wide range of substances with high accuracy, ensuring you receive trustworthy and timely results for informed decision-making.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Enosburg Falls, VT
Hair follicle testing aids in upholding drug-free workplace policies, reducing legal concerns, and improving safety standards. Employers gain peace of mind knowing compliance and safety are prioritized.
