Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. This method captures a historical record of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's growing fibers. When sourced close to the scalp, hair can offer an alcohol and drug detection range of up to roughly 90 days. The collection process for hair is straightforward, tampering is relatively arduous, and shipping is convenient.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil) from the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, the preferred sample size for screening and confirmation processes. For EtG, additional analyses, and tests surpassing 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advised. It's advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. In situations where scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. The term head hair specifically pertains to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result entail Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning marks the initial step where a sample is processed into a lab’s system. This phase involves verifying proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial rapid assessment for commonly abused drugs. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug usage in most samples, a positive result mandates confirmation to be court-admissible. Any samples indicating a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the initial specimen for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples with presumptive positives undergo washing prior to confirmation if required. The entire laboratory process ranging from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review in compliance with both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently referred to as "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Neabsco, VA
Hair follicle testing surpasses urine tests by offering superior detection capabilities. Its extended detection period and reliability ensure a thorough substance use assessment. When compared to conventional urine tests, hair testing emerges as a more robust option for those needing detailed insights.
Extended Detection Window in Neabsco, VA
With the ability to detect drug use for up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides a comprehensive overview of an individual's drug history. This extended window is crucial for employers seeking to understand an applicant or employee's long-term substance use patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Neabsco, VA
Hair follicle tests offer a high level of security by minimizing the risk of tampering. Their resistance to adulteration ensures that the results are reliable and beyond reproach, granting confidence to those relying on the accuracy of these tests.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Neabsco, VA
Our extensive network of testing centers guarantees ease of access and convenience. With nationwide reach and local presence, obtaining a drug test is a straightforward and stress-free process for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Neabsco, VA
The process for getting tested is designed to be straightforward and maintains confidentiality at every step. From order to result delivery, privacy and simplicity are top priorities, ensuring users feel secure and comfortable with the entire procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Neabsco, VA
Offering competitive pricing and efficient turnaround times, our hair follicle testing services provide excellent value. Companies of all sizes can benefit from our cost-effective solutions and quick access to reliable results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Neabsco, VA
Hair follicle drug testing offers unmatched precision and rapid results. These tests are highly accurate in identifying substance use, providing reliable data for decision-making. The efficiency and dependability of hair tests make them a preferred method for those needing certainty and speed in drug screening.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Neabsco, VA
Implementing hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, mitigating legal risks and promoting safety. Employers gain peace of mind knowing that their operational policies are both effective and enforceable.
