Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can offer up to a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. The collection process is straightforward, the potential for tampering is minimal, and it is easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and containing around 200 hair strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) from nearest the scalp equates to 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional panels, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It's advised to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If head hair isn't accessible, the equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair denote only scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result includes four principal steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial processing phase for incorporating a sample into a laboratory system. This process ensures proper sealing and shipment of the sample, the assignment of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completion of any necessary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is the phase designed for an initial rapid assessment of drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective approach to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation for legal validity. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test positive in the Screening step, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen and prepared for the Extraction phase. During this phase, the drug is extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than those utilized in other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug screening is the most complex method to undertake.
Confirmation of any positive result from Screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that test presumptively positive are washed as needed before confirmation. The entire laboratory process is rigorously evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the procedure actually examines the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Artondale, WA, hair follicle testing stands out compared to traditional urine tests. With its superior detection capabilities, hair analysis confirms more consistent and reliable results. It captures a broader history of substance use and provides a greater assurance of accuracy.
In Artondale, WA, hair follicle testing offers an unparalleled detection window for substance use lasting up to 90 days. This longer period of detection provides employers with detailed insights into an applicant or employee's substance use history, ensuring informed decision-making.
Hair follicle testing in Artondale, WA is recognized for its tamper-resistant features, significantly reducing the chances of sample adulteration. This test method ensures results are reliable and unequivocal, giving stakeholders peace of mind.
Testing is made convenient in Artondale, WA, with nationwide locations providing easy and hassle-free service access. Hair testing centers are situated to quickly facilitate the needs of those seeking testing services.
In Artondale, WA, the hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use. From ordering to obtaining results, the entire procedure is designed for simplicity to cater to user comfort.
In Artondale, WA, hair follicle testing features competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, providing excellent value for businesses of all sizes. Affordable rates and speedy results make this method appealing for cost-conscious clients.
The precision and swiftness of hair follicle drug tests make them a top choice in Artondale, WA. These tests boast a high rate of accuracy in catching substance use, ensuring dependable results. Additionally, the analysis process is streamlined to deliver fast outcomes, making them a preferred method for those needing reliable and speedy verification.
Using hair follicle testing helps employers in Artondale, WA comply with drug-free workplace regulations, reducing legal risks and promoting safety. This method bolsters confidence in maintaining compliant workplaces, assuring better management of legal liabilities.
