Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now regarded as an effective means for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a detailed timeline of drug and alcohol intake by trapping biomarkers within the growing structure of the hair strand. When retrieved near the scalp, hair offers a detection timeline extending up to almost three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively hard to tamper with, and uncomplicated to transport.
A hair segment measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) near the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, perfect for both screening and confirmation. For tests with EtG, extras, and/or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the hair is advised. It's suggested to measure the hair on a jeweler's scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't accessible, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. In contrast, body hair encompasses other types (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Summary
The four fundamental laboratory steps for processing a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the preliminary handling of a sample into the lab's system. This process includes validating the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, issuing a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any further data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers a rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening economically eliminates drug use for the majority of samples, a positive finding must be confirmed to be valid in legal settings. Any Screening phase presumptive positive samples require additional confirmation.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive outcome during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at substantially lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a much more complex method to conduct.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is utilized through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair endorsement and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of Hair Drug Analysis:
Challenges:
Note: Often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in North Hill, WA
Hair follicle testing provides a more comprehensive analysis compared to urine testing. Its ability to trace drug use over several months makes it a reliable choice. Whereas urine tests cover recent drug usage, hair tests verify longer-term habits, offering a clearer picture of a person's substance use patterns.
Extended Detection Window in North Hill, WA
Hair follicle testing excels in its ability to screen for drug use over an extended timeline, often up to 90 days. This broader scope enables employers to thoroughly evaluate an individual's substance history, offering assurance and clarity in hiring practices.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in North Hill, WA
The integrity of hair tests significantly minimizes the risk of tampering. Unlike other testing methods, the nature of hair sample collection and processing makes interference or adulteration exceedingly difficult, ensuring trustworthy results every time.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in North Hill, WA
Our extensive network of testing centers offers convenience to North Hill residents. With numerous locations across the nation, accessing swift and straightforward testing services has never been easier, supporting both local and widespread needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in North Hill, WA
Our testing procedure prioritizes user comfort and anonymity. From initial scheduling to result retrieval, each step is streamlined and private, reassuring individuals about the confidentiality and simplicity of the entire process.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in North Hill, WA
We offer competitive prices matched with quick response times, making hair follicle testing an economically smart choice for businesses, regardless of size. Our services promise exceptional value and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in North Hill, WA
Hair follicle testing ensures rapid and precise outcomes, crucial for timely decision-making. These tests are meticulously designed to detect a wide range of substances with high accuracy, making them the top choice for trusted drug testing.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in North Hill, WA
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns workplaces with drug-free policies, mitigating legal exposure and promoting a safer work environment. Employers gain confidence knowing they are in compliance with necessary regulations.
