Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have emerged as an influential instrument for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by encapsulating biomarkers within the fiber strands as hair grows. When extracted near the scalp, hair can offer roughly a three-month span for detecting substances like alcohol and other drugs. Hair is straightforward to acquire, relatively immune to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising about 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is the perfect sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or examinations exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair might be used. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four primary stages in the laboratory procedure of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab's framework. This process incorporates verifying that the sample was correctly sealed and dispatched, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical method for excluding drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive indication necessitates validation to be permissible legally. Samples suggesting positive results in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample indicates positivity during the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample to prepare for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at much lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive indication from screening is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The whole lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Prince George, VA, hair follicle tests are preferred for their extensive detection period compared to urine tests. Longer detection offers a broader view of substance use, making them more reliable for comprehensive assessments.
Hair tests provide unmatched accuracy, identifying drug usage patterns over months rather than days, unlike traditional urine tests. Employers benefit from the precise and detailed analysis these tests offer.
Hair testing in Prince George, VA, provides an extended detection window up to 90 days. This long-term insight is invaluable for employers who need a comprehensive view of substance history among applicants or employees.
Employers benefit from understanding an individual's drug use trends over time, allowing for better-informed decision-making regarding hiring or continued employment.
Prince George, VA's hair follicle testing boasts an anti-tampering advantage. The nature of hair samples reduces the risk of sample alteration, ensuring reliable test results.
Integrity and reliability characterize this testing method, as altering hair samples is notably challenging. This makes hair follicle testing a preferable choice for accurate drug use assessment.
Our nationwide and local testing centers in Prince George, VA, offer quick and convenient access to hair follicle testing services. This accessibility ensures ease of scheduling and testing without logistical challenges.
Enjoy a hassle-free process with locations spread across the country, making necessary testing achievable without delays, regardless of your location.
The hair follicle testing process in Prince George, VA, is designed to be straightforward and entirely private. From ordering to testing and result delivery, confidentiality is assured, easing privacy concerns.
Simplicity and discretion are prioritized, making the entire process user-friendly, allowing individuals to comfortably engage with the testing procedure.
In Prince George, VA, our hair follicle testing offers competitive pricing alongside fast turnaround times. This affordability ensures access to reliable testing without financial strain.
Firms of all sizes appreciate the value of our testing services, knowing they will receive expedient and accurate results without compromising on cost.
Hair follicle testing in Prince George, VA, is known for its speed and accuracy. Quick results provide essential insights into substance use with high precision. Unlike other methods, hair tests identify drug presence with remarkable accuracy, ensuring reliable outcomes.
Efficiency is key, as these tests rapidly yield results without sacrificing accuracy. This swift process benefits employers and individuals needing prompt, truthful answers about drug history.
Opting for hair follicle tests in Prince George, VA, guarantees compliance with drug-free workplace policies, minimizing legal risks and fostering a safer work environment.
Employers gain peace of mind knowing their policies are upheld, reducing potential liabilities. A drug-free workplace supports productivity and enhances safety for all employees.
