Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair evaluations have gained recognition as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of drug and alcohol usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a detection window of approximately three months for alcohol and other substances. Collecting hair is straightforward, making it harder to tamper with, and easy to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 strands near the scalp (similar to the diameter of a #2 pencil) will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, additional tests, or tests with more than 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's beneficial to weigh the hair sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't an option, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. When discussing head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair encompasses other types like facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The primary phases in the lab processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial insertion of the sample into the laboratory’s system, where the sample's proper sealing and shipping are checked, a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) is assigned, and any further data not given digitally is entered manually.
Screening executes an initial rapid check for drug misuse. Though it efficiently rules out drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates further confirmation for legal acceptability. Presumptive positive samples from Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
For positively presumed samples in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction stage. Here, drugs are separated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods like urine or oral fluids, which contributes to the challenge of hair drug screening processes.
Positive results from Screening undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. If necessary, all samples with presumptive positives are cleansed prior to confirmation. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed as "hair follicle tests", the test actually examines the strand of hair, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to urine testing within Sandyville, WV, the former stands out due to superior detection capabilities. Hair tests offer higher accuracy and reliability, making them a preference for businesses aiming to ensure a drug-free workplace, so they can maintain high standards.
Hair follicle testing in Sandyville, WV extends the detection window for drug use up to 90 days. This lengthy period enables employers to gain a fuller view of a candidate's drug history, assisting them in making more informed hiring decisions, thereby ensuring a safer work environment.
Hair follicle tests in Sandyville, WV notably decrease the likelihood of altering samples. The integrity of the testing method means that employers can rely on the authenticity and accuracy of the results, which are challenging to dispute, ensuring trustworthy conclusions.
With testing centers nationwide, including accessible locations in Sandyville, WV, obtaining a hair follicle test is quick and simple. Our widespread availability ensures easy access, providing convenience and flexibility for individuals needing testing services.
The process for hair follicle testing in Sandyville, WV is straightforward and private. From ordering to taking the test and receiving results, the procedure is designed for ease and confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns effectively for all individuals involved.
Offering competitive pricing in Sandyville, WV, hair follicle testing ensures quick results and excellent value. Businesses of various sizes benefit from affordable rates and swift turnaround times, making drug testing both cost-effective and efficient in screening practices.
In Sandyville, WV, the precision of hair follicle testing reflects its ability to rapidly and precisely identify substance use. Employers favor these tests for their speed and dependable results, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of an individual's history and current status with drug use.
For employers in Sandyville, WV, hair follicle testing provides assurance of compliance with strict workplace drug policies. This strengthens workplace safety and minimizes potential legal complications, offering peace of mind and a safer work environment.
