Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective means for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. It captures a long-term record of substances by securing biomarkers within the structure of the hair strands as they grow. Hair obtained close to the scalp offers nearly a three-month window for detecting drugs and alcohol. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of about 200 hair strands (roughly equivalent to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp amounts to 100mg of hair, ideal for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the specimen is advised. We suggest weighing the specimen using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable amount of body hair can be utilized. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair pertains to all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing process in a laboratory involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning signifies the initial stage of processing a sample within a lab's system, including verifying the secure shipment of samples, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any extra data entry not accommodated by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a preliminary check for drugs. Though economical for excluding drug usage in most samples, a positive screen requires confirmation for court admissibility. All samples deemed presumptively positive in screening must undergo further confirmation.
In instances of a presumptively positive result at the Screening stage, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at concentrations significantly lower than other methods (for example, urine or saliva), making hair drug screening notably challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screens is handled via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating positive results are appropriately washed before confirmation. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," the procedure analyzes the hair strand itself rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Rushmere, VA relies on its superior detection capabilities over traditional urine tests. The hair sample's capacity to uncover drug use spans far beyond the short window of urine tests, offering a broader view of substance habits. Moreover, the reliability of hair testing in Rushmere is unmatched, providing trustworthy data essential for informed decisions.
The Extended Detection Window in Rushmere, VA provided by hair follicle testing captures drug use up to 90 days in the past. This comprehensive time frame gives employers an in-depth look into an individual's substance use history, which is crucial for informed hiring and monitoring decisions. Such extended insight helps maintain a drug-free workplace environment.
The Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Rushmere, VA ensures that hair follicle drug tests are exceptionally reliable. The inherent difficulty in adulterating hair samples significantly reduces the chances of tampering, offering results that can be trusted. This reliability is integral to maintaining the integrity of the drug testing process and its outcomes.
Convenience in Testing Locations is evident with our numerous centers nationwide and in Rushmere, VA. The widespread presence of testing facilities means fast, easy, and hassle-free access to drug testing services. This expansive network ensures individuals and employers alike can meet their testing needs without difficulty.
The Simple, Confidential Process in Rushmere, VA addresses concerns about privacy and convenience. Ordering, taking, and receiving results is designed to be straightforward and discreet, safeguarding personal information while ensuring ease of use. This approach underpins user confidence and satisfaction throughout the testing journey.
Our Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Rushmere, VA mean businesses of any size can benefit from competitive rates and quick results. We focus on delivering excellent value without compromising quality or speed, ensuring that clients receive dependable service that aligns with their financial and operational expectations.
In Rushmere, VA, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and promptness. Their accuracy in identifying substance use is unparalleled, making them a preferred choice for those seeking reliable results quickly. The meticulous nature of the testing procedure ensures that practitioners deliver results with minimal delays, thereby allowing decision-makers to act swiftly and with confidence.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Rushmere, VA are achievable with hair follicle testing. Adopting this method helps assure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. It mitigates legal risks and enhances safety at work, offering employers a reliable solution to manage and enforce substance regulations with confidence.
