Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug usage. Hair captures a historical record of drugs and alcohol by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand. When taken close to the scalp, hair can indicate up to a 3-month detection range for substances. It's easy to collect, hard to alter, and simple to transport.
To obtain an ideal specimen for evaluation and confirmation, collect a 1.5-inch segment of around 200 strands near the scalp, approximately equal to the thickness of a #2 pencil, yielding 100mg. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair can't be procured, equivalent body hair may be utilized. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory system. This step ensures the sample was correctly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and addresses any additional data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes an initial rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening necessitate a subsequent confirmation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair from the original sample is extracted for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at concentrations much lower than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which accounts for the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of a positive screening result happens via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Excels over Urine Testing in Marumsco, VA
In Marumsco, VA, the advantages of hair follicle over urine tests are clear. Hair testing offers superior accuracy and reliability, providing a more extended detection window. This method detects substances longer past their use compared to traditional urine tests, making it a preferred choice for employers and authorities seeking comprehensive substance use insights.
Extended Detection Period in Marumsco, VA
One of the key advantages of hair follicle testing in Marumsco, VA, is its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This makes it an invaluable tool for understanding an individual's long-term substance history, helping employers and organizations make better-informed decisions about potential applicants and current employees.
Secure and Tamper-Resistant Testing in Marumsco, VA
Hair follicle testing in Marumsco, VA, offers a highly tamper-resistant method for drug screening. Unlike other testing forms, it's resistant to typical adulteration efforts, ensuring that the results are both reliable and unquestionable. This process provides peace of mind that the data received is legitimate and true to the tested individual's history.
Convenient Testing Locations Nationwide and in Marumsco, VA
With a network of conveniently located testing centers nation's wide, including in Marumsco, VA, accessing hair follicle drug testing services has never been easier. This accessibility ensures that individuals and organizations can quickly and effortlessly participate in the testing process without unnecessary hassle.
Simplified and Private Process in Marumsco, VA
The hair follicle testing process in Marumsco, VA, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. From scheduling to receiving results, each step prioritizes user privacy and simplicity, ensuring participants feel secure and assured throughout the procedure while maintaining ease of use.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Results in Marumsco, VA
Marumsco, VA offers hair follicle testing that balances affordability with efficiency. The cost-effective pricing models and rapid turnaround times deliver significant value to businesses of varying sizes, providing peace of mind and quick access to crucial information.
Experience Speed and Precision in Marumsco, VA
Hair follicle drug testing in Marumsco, VA, guarantees fast and accurate results. This method excels at precisely identifying substance use due to its advanced analysis techniques, ensuring dependable outcomes. The accuracy and timely delivery of results make it an optimal choice for individuals and organizations seeking reliable testing solutions.
Assured Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Marumsco, VA
Employers in Marumsco, VA, achieve peace of mind through hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This testing method reduces potential legal issues and enhances safety by offering a thorough view of an individual's history, supporting a stronger organizational environment.