Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. It offers a long-term record of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the growing hair's fibers. When hair is taken close to the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol use up to around three months back. Collecting hair is straightforward, not easily tampered with, and easily shipped.
A 1.5-inch piece consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (akin to a #2 pencil in size) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is ideal for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, and test panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is suggested. We advise using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When we mention head hair, we specifically refer to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug testing process in laboratories consists of four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is processed into the lab’s system, starting with verifying the sample's sealing and proper shipping, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any additional data input not included by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary quick assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is an economical way to discard drug use in most samples, a positive result requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any samples that show a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
Should a sample show a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, extra hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at much more reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug screening represents the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation for any positive screening outcome is accomplished via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All presumptive positive samples undergo a washing process before confirmation as necessary. The entire lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation complying with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being often called "hair follicle tests", the test actually analyzes the hair strand rather than the follicle underneath the scalp.
In Bluewell, WV, hair follicle testing stands superior to urine testing in numerous ways. One major advantage is its longer detection window, offering insights into substance use up to 90 days prior. This surpasses the limited timeframe of conventional urine tests and provides comprehensive screening.
The precision involved in hair testing in Bluewell is another reason why it's preferred. Offering greater accuracy and less susceptibility to tampering than urine tests, it ensures reliable results. As such, entities seeking robust substance use policies turn to this testing option over others for a trusted assessment.
One remarkable feature of hair follicle testing in Bluewell, WV, is its extended detection period for drug usage. Unlike other methods, this testing provides details about substance history up to 90 days back. Employers gain a full understanding of an individual's substance usage profile, aiding better decision-making.
This extended window ensures that no substance misuse goes unnoticed. By reaching back far beyond what urine tests can offer, hair testing serves as an essential tool for those looking to spot recurring drug use and maintain workplace integrity. It's a robust measure for comprehensive checks.
In Bluewell, WV, the tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing makes it highly dependable. Unlike other testing methods, attempts to alter or contaminate samples prove ineffective. This provides security in the unquestionable results direct from the source, ensuring accurate assessments.
Its safeguarding methods against adulteration mean one can trust the legitimacy of test results. With the authenticity of the results being crucial, opting for hair follicle testing is the clear choice when preserving the unassailable nature of drug screening.
With nationwide testing centers, Bluewell, WV, residents can access hair follicle testing with minimal hassle. Our centers are strategically located, offering quick and convenient services with ease of access. This, in turn, ensures a streamlined experience for all who need it.
Whether one needs to schedule local or nationwide tests, the presence of numerous facilities facilitates fast service delivery. This accessibility means less time spent worrying about logistics, and more on obtaining accurate results efficiently. It represents testing made easy for all needs.
Experience a simple and confidential process for hair follicle testing in Bluewell, WV. From ordering to receiving results, every step is streamlined to protect your privacy. This straightforward method makes the entire screening experience hassle-free while ensuring confidentiality throughout.
Worries about data breaches or procedural complexities are eliminated, making for stress-free engagement. The user-centric design ensures that both individuals and employers find the process smooth and secure, reinforcing trust in the discreet handling of sensitive information.
In Bluewell, WV, the combination of affordable pricing and swift results for hair follicle testing provides excellent value. Our competitive pricing structure ensures companies of all sizes benefit from high-quality testing without a financial burden, aligning budgetary constraints with top-tier services.
Beyond cost-effectiveness, the fast turnaround times guarantee prompt decision-making based on precise data. This gives companies peace of mind, knowing they're investing wisely in their drug testing strategies. Our approach ensures price doesn't compromise the quality of results.
Precision is key when it comes to drug testing, and hair follicle tests excel in this aspect in Bluewell, WV. Their accuracy in detecting substance use is unmatched, delivering swift results. With technology that goes beyond conventional methods, these tests help in identifying drug use with a high level of reliability.
The speed at which hair follicle testing results are produced ensures that employers and individuals are not left waiting endlessly. The turnaround time is quick, allowing for immediate decision-making based on the reliable outcomes these tests provide. It's no wonder why Bluewell trusts this method for accurate substance detection.
For employers in Bluewell, WV, ensuring a drug-free policy with hair follicle testing leads to compliance and peace of mind. This testing reduces potential legal complications by providing conclusive evidence of substance usage, effectively mitigating workplace risks and strengthening policies.
These tests assist in maintaining an environment where zero-tolerance to drug use is clear and enforced. Employers can trust this method, knowing it aligns with regulations and contributes to a safer workspace. Overall, it bridges the gap between strict policies and a comfortable working atmosphere.