Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as a significant technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol intake over a span of up to 90 days. It is straightforward to collect, somewhat challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with around 200 hair strands (about the girth of a #2 pencil) taken from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for examination and verification. For EtG, supplementary analyses, or assessments exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for weighing the specimen. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be gathered. When we refer to head hair, we imply scalp hair solely. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a specimen into the lab's system. This procedure ensures that the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any remaining data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening represents an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although it is a cost-effective means to eliminate drug use for most samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation to hold up in court. Any samples suspected of being positive during Screening must undergo further confirmation.
If a sample is suspected positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction step. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than other techniques (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most intricate methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any suspected positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Even though commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When it comes to drug testing, hair follicle assessments surpass urine tests in Brownsburg, VA. Hair testing offers more accurate results and boasts superior reliability. The extended detection window and resistance to tampering significantly reduce error margins, providing clarity for employers making crucial decisions on substance use detection.
Employers in Brownsburg, VA, often turn to hair follicle testing for its ability to reveal drug use over an extended period, typically up to 90 days. This method grants a thorough insight into an individual’s substance history, aiding in informed decision-making. Unlike shorter detection windows of other tests, hair testing offers a complete view.
Brownsburg, VA, hair follicle tests possess a remarkable ability to minimize sample adulteration risks. Their tamper-resistant nature ensures that results remain indisputable and accurate. This level of reliability is beneficial for organizations aiming to maintain integrity in their drug testing protocols.
In Brownsburg, VA, our expansive network of nationwide testing centers facilitates seamless access to services. Locally, testing is made convenient with easily reachable facilities, ensuring a straightforward and efficient experience for those needing drug tests without the stress of long waits or complicated processes.
In Brownsburg, VA, the hair follicle drug testing process is straightforward and confidential, from ordering to obtaining results. Clients can trust that privacy is upheld at every stage, ensuring a hassle-free experience that respects their personal information while delivering needed results.
Brownsburg, VA offers competitive prices and swift turnaround times for hair follicle drug testing. These factors create unbeatable value, catering to businesses of various sizes that seek reliable results without delay, ensuring they maintain their drug policies efficiently.
In Brownsburg, VA, hair follicle drug testing offers quick, dependable results, standing out in precision and speed. This testing method demonstrates an unparalleled accuracy rate, effectively identifying substance use. The speed at which results are obtained elevates this method above others, ensuring timely decisions based on solid evidence.
Incorporating hair follicle testing into workplace protocols in Brownsburg, VA, provides employers with compliance and tranquility. This method helps uphold drug-free workplace policies, mitigates legal complications, and enhances overall safety. Employers can rest assured knowing that this reliable testing maintains their standards.
