Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures long-term evidence of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's structure as it grows. When acquired near the scalp, hair can provide up to a 3-month detection period for substances like alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient for transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the girth of a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, a perfect quantity for examination and validation. For tests such as EtG, additional screenings, or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is suggested. We advise using a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types such as facial and axillary.
Process Overview
The major phases involved in processing a drug test outcome in the lab are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into the laboratory system. This step verifies that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any extra data entry not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides a preliminary fast check for drugs of abuse. While Screening is an economical way to exclude drug use in most instances, a positive result must be verified for court admissibility. Any samples triggering a presumptive positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair from the initial specimen is prepped for Extraction. At this phase, drugs are extracted from the hair at much lower concentrations than in other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug analysis the most complex methodology.
Any positive screening result is validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the technique evaluates the hair strand, not the beneath-scalp hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
Hair tests offer a superior assessment over traditional urine tests due to their expansive detection window. When compared to urine tests, hair follicle assessments are more accurate and reliable, providing a comprehensive overview of an individual’s substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
Hair follicle tests boast a detection period that can extend up to 90 days, offering a broader outlook on an individual's substance usage. This extended window allows employers to gain a more detailed understanding of an applicant's or employee’s drug history.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
The hair follicle testing methodology significantly minimizes the potential for sample adulteration, ensuring that results are both reliable and trustworthy. This tamper-resistant nature makes it an ideal choice for those seeking unadulterated outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
With testing centers spread across the nation, we offer unparalleled convenience, ensuring that accessing our testing services is both quick and effortless. Local facilities in Bailey's Crossroads make the process even more accessible.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
Ordering, taking, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is a straightforward and private process. Our services are designed to respect privacy while ensuring ease of use, addressing any concerns surrounding confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
Our competitive pricing and swift result turnaround deliver exceptional value to organizations of any size, providing economic and timely solutions for those seeking reliable drug testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
The precision and speed of hair follicle testing offer substantial advantages. These tests are known for their high accuracy when it comes to detecting substances, making them a trusted choice for those in need of dependable results. Rapid turnaround times ensure that individuals and employers receive the necessary insights without delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bailey's Crossroads, VA
Implementing hair follicle testing assists employers in adhering to drug-free workplace policies. This not only mitigates legal risks but also contributes to a safer and more secure working environment.
