Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair examinations have emerged as a robust method for identifying the usage of alcohol and drugs. Hair retains a comprehensive record of drugs and alcohol over time by embedding biomarkers within the growth of hair fibers. A sample collected near the scalp can reveal up to an approximately 3-month history of alcohol and other drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easy to transport.
The ideal screening and confirmation sample requires a 1.5-inch segment of about 200 strands of hair (akin to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, yielding 100mg of hair. For tests such as EtG, add-ons, or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. We suggest weighing the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is unavailable, equivalent body hair can be obtained. When referencing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the preliminary incorporation of a sample into a lab’s system. This entails confirming that the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any other data entry missing from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of a preliminary assessment for substances of abuse. Although Screening is economical for eliminating drug use in most samples, a confirmed positive screen is necessary for legal admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening require secondary confirmation.
For samples presumptively positive in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a significantly lower concentration than in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which contributes to hair drug screening's status as the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often called "hair follicle tests," the testing itself evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Dunlow, WV, hair follicle testing outshines traditional urine testing. The former provides enhanced detection accuracy, making it a reliable option. Hair testing not only detects a wider range of substances but also reflects usage over a longer period, giving it an edge over urine tests.
Hair follicle testing in Dunlow, WV captures drug use over an extended period, up to 90 days. This wide window gives employers a comprehensive view of substance history for candidates or employees, making informed decisions easier.
With the hair follicle test in Dunlow, WV, tampering is significantly minimized. This method's robust nature ensures reliable and unquestionable results, reducing risks attached to adulteration.
With numerous nationwide centers, Accredited Drug Testing in Dunlow, WV offers convenient access to testing facilities. Our extensive network ensures a seamless testing experience, no matter where you are.
The process for hair follicle testing in Dunlow, WV is both simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step prioritizes security and ease, addressing any privacy concerns users might have.
In Dunlow, WV, hair follicle testing is not only priced competitively but also guarantees quick turnaround times. This balance of affordability and efficiency proves valuable for businesses of all sizes.
Hair follicle testing in Dunlow, WV offers unparalleled precision and speed. Its accuracy in substance detection is superior, ensuring reliable results on time. Fast, accurate outcomes make it a top choice for many.
Employers in Dunlow, WV find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, ensuring compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal liabilities and enhances safety standards at the workplace.