Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an efficient means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a historical record of substance use by storing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it offers an approximate three-month timeframe for the detection of alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) cut close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both initial and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional evaluations, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not available, a similar amount of body hair can be taken. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes any other type of hair (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory handling of a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step, where the sample is entered into the laboratory system. This step ensures the sample was appropriately sealed and delivered, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional data needed that hasn't been provided through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary and quick check for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug usage in most specimens, a positive screen needs confirmation for court validity. Samples that are presumptively positive during Screening require a further confirmatory test.
If the Screening phase indicates a presumptive positive result, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair in much lower concentrations than other analysis methods, such as urine or oral fluid, which is why hair drug testing is the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo a wash before confirmation if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair program and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine tests in Carlsborg, WA, the former exhibits superior accuracy and reliability. Hair tests extend detection periods, unveiling substance usage far beyond the scope of urine tests. This extended reach facilitates better-informed decisions for employers.
The advantage of hair follicle testing in Carlsborg, WA, lies in its extended detection window. Unlike other tests, it can trace drug use up to 90 days back, providing a more comprehensive view of an individual's substance history, invaluable for employers seeking detailed information.
Hair follicle tests in Carlsborg, WA, are known for their tamper-resistant nature. Unlike urine tests, where adulteration is a concern, hair testing offers undeniable reliability, significantly lowering any alterations, ensuring trustworthy, unquestionable results.
With numerous nationwide and local testing centers in Carlsborg, WA, accessing hair follicle tests is convenient and hassle-free. Our widespread locations ensure quick and easy availability of testing services for efficient substance use verification.
Conducting a hair follicle test in Carlsborg, WA, involves a simple and confidential process. The procedure from ordering to receiving results ensures privacy, addressing users' concerns about ease and confidentiality in accessing their necessary information.
In Carlsborg, WA, we offer hair follicle testing at competitive pricing with fast turnaround times. Our services provide excellent value, ensuring quality drug testing solutions that accommodate the needs and budgets of companies regardless of their size.
In Carlsborg, WA, hair follicle tests are renowned for their accurate and reliable substance detection. These tests offer fast results, ensuring prompt drug use verification. The precision of hair testing surpasses traditional methods, promoting trust in results among employers and courts.
In Carlsborg, WA, employing hair follicle testing promotes compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method enhances workplace safety and minimizes legal risks, providing peace of mind to employers by ensuring adherence to necessary guidelines.
