Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Snoqualmie, WA

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term history of these substances by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair shaft as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer up to a roughly 3-month timeframe for detecting alcohol and drugs. It is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and easy to send.

A sample of 1.5 inches comprising approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will provide 100mg of hair, considered the perfect amount for both screening and confirming results. For EtG, extensions, and/or tests exceeding 10-panel screens, 150mg of hair is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale to measure the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair might be used. When we mention head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes any other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

There are four primary procedures in the lab processing of a drug test, which include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the preliminary processing of a specimen into a laboratory's system. This process confirms that the specimen was properly sealed and transported, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any additional information entry not included by an electronic chain of custody protocol.

Screening comprises an initial rapid assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is an economically viable method to exclude drug usage in most cases, a positive screen requires confirmation to be valid in legal proceedings. Any samples that return a presumptive positive after Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.

If a sample shows a presumptive positive during the Screening phase, further hair is taken from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. This process extracts substances from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), hence, hair drug screening is the most challenging process to undertake.

Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation if required. The comprehensive lab process, spanning from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed according to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and the ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection period: Hair drug tests have the ability to trace drug use up to 90 days, whereas urine tests offer a shorter detection time.
• Challenging to deceive: Cheating a hair drug test is quite difficult, resulting in more precise outcomes.
• Offers historical insight: It can reveal a trend of drug use across a duration, rather than just immediate use.

Limitations:

• Unable to detect recent usage: It takes nearly 5-7 days for substances to become identifiable in hair.
• Expense: Generally, hair drug tests tend to be costlier compared to other testing techniques.
• Result variations: Factors such as hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence the metabolite concentration in hair.

Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the hair strand itself and not the hair follicle located beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

For detecting substance use, hair testing offers far superior advantages over urine tests in Snoqualmie, WA. Its ability to uncover a broader spectrum of drug usage patterns gives it the edge. With heightened detection accuracy and reliability, hair testing proves to be an invaluable tool for efficient screening.

Extended Detection Window

Snoqualmie, WA employers trust hair follicle drug testing for its remarkable extended detection window. Covering up to 90 days of substance history, this method provides a comprehensive view into the applicant or employee's habits, assisting in informed, reliable decision-making.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle tests in Snoqualmie, WA are renowned for their tamper-resistant capabilities. The method significantly reduces the chances of sample interference, offering results that are not only reliable but beyond question. This ensures integrity throughout the testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our conveniently located testing centers in Snoqualmie, WA, and across the nation, make accessing drug testing services hassle-free. The widespread availability ensures that every client benefits from quick and uncomplicated service, wherever they are situated.

Simple, Confidential Process

The simple and confidential drug testing process in Snoqualmie, WA ensures ease from ordering to receiving results. Designed with privacy in mind, this process alleviates concerns, making it accessible and straightforward for all users.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Snoqualmie, WA offers affordable pricing and fast turnaround for hair follicle testing. This service exemplifies great value for businesses of all sizes, ensuring prompt and cost-effective solutions to meet varied needs.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

The hair follicle drug tests in Snoqualmie, WA stand out for their fast and accurate results. They offer unparalleled precision in identifying substance use. Unlike other methods, their swiftness in delivering conclusive outcomes is remarkable, ensuring that clients receive reliable information promptly.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

In Snoqualmie, WA, hair follicle testing represents a vital tool for maintaining workplace compliance and assurance. Aligning with drug-free policies, it minimizes legal risks, supporting a safe work environment, and instilling confidence in employers and employees alike.

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