Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Acorn, VA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective mechanism for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair can offer a comprehensive view over extended periods by embedding biomarkers in its strands during growth. When clipped near the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol usage for up to around three months. Collecting hair is straightforward, moderately resistant to tampering, and convenient to mail.

A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, optimal for analysis. For EtG, enhancements, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent portion of body hair is suitable. By head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes all other types (facial, underarm, etc.).

Process Overview

The laboratory processing of a drug test outcome involves four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning refers to the preliminary processing of a sample within a lab's system. This process encompasses checking that the sample was appropriately sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening entails a preliminary quick assessment for drug abuse. Though Screening is a cost-efficient method for eliminating drug use in the bulk of samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples that show a positive indication in Screening mandate a supplementary confirmation.

If a sample shows a positive indication in the Screening phase, more hair is obtained from the original specimen and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are withdrawn from hair at much lower concentrations than in other approaches (for instance, urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.

Confirmation of any positive screen is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating a positive result undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can identify drug use for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a shorter detection span.
• Challenging to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test is very difficult, ensuring more precise results.
• Delivers historical information: It supplies a record of drug use over time, not merely recent usage.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent usage: It necessitates about 5-7 days for substances to become detectable in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug testing typically costs more than other methods.
• Variability in outcomes: Elements like hair color and individual differences in hair growth can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests," the test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Acorn, VA The hair follicle test surpasses traditional urine tests in several ways. With a broader detection span and heightened accuracy, it effectively reveals prolonged history of drug use. In comparison, urine tests present shorter detection periods and are prone to potential tampering.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Acorn, VA Hair follicle tests provide a longer timeframe for detection—up to 90 days. This extended period offers employers a fuller understanding of an individual’s drug habits, surpassing the usual limitations found with other methods like urine tests.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Acorn, VA Hair follicle analysis dramatically minimizes the risk of test sample tampering. Once the hair sample is collected, it becomes nearly impossible to alter, delivering results that are trustworthy and valid.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Acorn, VA Our broad network of testing centers, including Acorn, VA ensures ease and accessibility for all testing needs. Whether local or nationwide, our facilities provide seamless service and support.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Acorn, VA The entire procedure—from ordering the test, undergoing the collection, to receiving the results—is straightforward and discreet, addressing concerns about privacy while maintaining ease of use for all involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Acorn, VA Our competitive pricing coupled with speedy result delivery provides exceptional value to businesses, enabling them to achieve peace of mind efficiently and economically.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Acorn, VA The hair follicle drug test is not only quick but also distinguishes itself with precision, providing accurate data on substance consumption. swiftly implemented, it ensures reliable outcomes with its refined detection ability, offering a thorough understanding of any drug use.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Acorn, VA By opting for hair follicle testing, employers adhere to drug-free workplace regulations, mitigating legal challenges and fostering a safer, more productive environment.

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