Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair assessments are now recognized as effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair encases a prolonged record of alcohol and drug intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the maturing hair strand. When taken near the scalp, hair may reveal up to a 3-month timeframe for alcohol and drug detection. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively tough to alter, and simple to send.
A 1.5-inch hair section consisting of roughly 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil's diameter) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the ideal amount for screening and verification. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to measure the specimen is recommended. In scenarios where scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we denote solely scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the laboratory analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system. This entails ensuring proper sealing and shipment of the sample, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse presence. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug use on most samples, a positive result must be confirmed to hold up in court. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening require additional confirmation.
If a sample appears positive in the Screening stage, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are removed from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug screening is extremely challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is carried out through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO/IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand rather than the scalp’s hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Crozet, VA
Hair follicle testing outperforms traditional urine tests in several ways. In Crozet, VA, the hair test offers superior accuracy and longer detection periods, capturing a comprehensive history of substance use. Employers find hair testing more reliable, as it reduces the chances of cheating through tampering.
Extended Detection Window in Crozet, VA
Hair follicle testing provides a significantly extended detection period, up to 90 days, in Crozet, VA. This feature allows employers to gain a holistic view of an individual’s substance history, offering insight that shorter detection windows simply cannot match. Reliable detection over an extended period is key for informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Crozet, VA
In Crozet, VA, the hair follicle test is lauded for its tamper-resistant properties. This method minimizes the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that the results are both reliable and unquestionable. The integrity of the testing process is maintained, providing confidence in the outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Crozet, VA
Testing services in Crozet, VA are incredibly convenient with our nationwide centers. Accessibility is no issue, with local and widespread locations ensuring easy and hassle-free testing service access. Whether in a large city or local area, our testing centers provide prompt service.
Simple, Confidential Process in Crozet, VA
The process for hair follicle testing in Crozet, VA is straightforward and confidential. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is a seamless experience, designed to protect privacy while ensuring ease of use. Clients can trust in the privacy of their information throughout the testing process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Crozet, VA
Competitive pricing and swift turnaround are hallmarks of the hair follicle testing service in Crozet, VA. Clients receive excellent value for reliable results, making this an attractive option for companies of all sizes. Affordable solutions ensure businesses maintain both budgetary and testing efficiency.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Crozet, VA
The hair follicle drug test in Crozet, VA stands out for its precision and speed. This testing method allows for accurate detection of substance use, ensuring reliable results are delivered quickly. Clients benefit from the high accuracy of this method, making it a preferred choice for drug testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Crozet, VA
Choosing hair follicle testing in Crozet, VA aids employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. It reduces legal risks while promoting a safe and healthy work environment. Employers enjoy peace of mind knowing that hair testing offers accurate and comprehensive results.
