Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests have emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month detection timeline for alcohol and drugs. Hair samples are easy to gather, somewhat resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil’s thickness) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, considered ideal for initial screening and confirmation. For EtG inclusions and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the hair sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, an equal quantity of body hair can be utilized. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary steps in processing a laboratory drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing within the laboratory system. This step confirms the sample's sealing and shipment accuracy, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and complements any missing data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening constitutes a preliminary evaluation for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most samples, positive results require confirmation for court admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample show presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the initial specimen for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), accounting for the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is executed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all presumptively positive samples undergo washing as needed. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning through Confirmation is monitored under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests," the test assesses the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Choose Hair Follicle Testing Over Urine Tests in Cedonia, WA?
Hair follicle tests are progressively becoming the preferred choice thanks to their comprehensive detection capabilities compared to traditional urine tests.
Detect Substance Use over an Extended Period in Cedonia, WA
Employers benefit from the comprehensive overview, facilitating informed decision-making regarding their workforce’s substance history.
Reduced Risk of Sample Tampering in Cedonia, WA
Employers and professionals can rest easy knowing results remain authentic and resistant to manipulation through the use of hair follicle testing.
Convenient Testing Locations in Cedonia, WA and Nationwide
This wide-ranging accessibility enables fast, straightforward procedures in Cedonia, contributing to a more efficient testing framework.
A Simple, Confidential Process in Cedonia, WA
The meticulous design of this process abides by privacy standards, ensuring a smooth drug testing experience for all participants in Cedonia.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Turnaround in Cedonia, WA
For businesses, this means securing comprehensive testing affordably without sacrificing quality, benefiting organizations throughout Cedonia.
Fast and Precise Testing in Cedonia, WA
With swift procedures and dependable data collection, hair tests are incredibly effective and reliable for proactive substance use monitoring.
Ensuring Workplace Compliance in Cedonia, WA
Employers experience peace of mind, ensuring compliance and contributing to an overall secure and productive workforce.