Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair traps biomarkers within the fibers of the growing strand, providing a prolonged history of substance intake. When collected close to the scalp, it offers an approximate detection period of up to 3 months for drugs and alcohol. Hair samples are straightforward to gather, harder to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches, roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil size) near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for screening and validation. For EtG, additional, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It's beneficial to weigh the specimen on a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair is acceptable. Reference to head hair pertains exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation are the primary phases in processing drug test results in the lab.
Accessioning pertains to the initial receipt of a sample into the lab’s system. This process includes ensuring the sample is properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening involves a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective method to negate drug presence in the majority of cases, a positive screen requires confirmation for legal admissibility. Any samples that test presumptively positive in Screening need further confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are detached from the hair at substantially lower concentrations than other techniques (ex. urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The processes from Accessioning to Confirmation are evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", it is the hair strand being tested, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New River, VA
In the debate between hair follicle and urine testing in New River, VA, hair testing is superior due to its accuracy and robustness. While urine tests capture short-term use, hair testing offers comprehensive insight into drug habits, covering a longer timeframe and providing more consistent and reliable results.
Extended Detection Window in New River, VA
Hair follicle testing, available in New River, VA, boasts an extended detection window of up to 90 days. This provides employers with a complete view of an employee's or applicant's drug history, making it an invaluable tool for assessing long-term drug use patterns.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New River, VA
In New River, VA, hair follicle tests stand out as a tamper-resistant method, significantly reducing the risk of sample manipulation. This method ensures that results remain accurate and indisputable, providing peace of mind for both employers and individuals.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New River, VA
Our widespread testing locations, including New River, VA, ensure accessibility and convenience for all. With numerous centers nationwide, individuals and companies can expect prompt and effortless testing experiences without the hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in New River, VA
Residents of New River, VA, benefit from a straightforward and discreet testing process. Ordering, attending, and receiving results is streamlined and confidential, providing users with comfort and privacy throughout the testing experience.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New River, VA
In New River, VA, hair follicle testing is both cost-effective and efficient. Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround deliver value and peace of mind, catering to companies regardless of size.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New River, VA
For those looking for swift and dependable results in New River, VA, hair follicle drug tests lead the way with unmatched accuracy and speed. Compared to other testing methods, hair testing provides detailed insights faster, ensuring that employers receive precise assessments of substance usage.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New River, VA
Employers in New River, VA, gain peace of mind through compliance with workplace drug-free policies via hair follicle testing. This approach minimizes legal risks and enhances safety, affirming commitment to a drug-free environment.
