Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has emerged as an effective method for identifying alcohol and drug usage. Hair captures a comprehensive historical record of drug and alcohol intake by embedding biomarkers within the growing hair fibers. When sampled near the scalp, hair can reflect substance use over roughly a three-month period. It is straightforward to collect, somewhat resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
Acquiring a sample length of 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from close to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for both screening and confirmation purposes. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or analyses exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. We suggest weighing the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be provided, a proportional quantity of body hair may be gathered. References to head hair specifically denote scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result consists of four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into the lab’s system. This process includes confirming the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning an arbitrary LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and entering any additional data not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
The Screening phase involves a preliminary, rapid examination for drugs of abuse. Although Screening serves as a cost-efficient means to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive outcome necessitates confirmation to be legally defensible. Samples yielding a presumptive positive from Screening will require a subsequent confirmation step.
When a sample is presumptively positive during the Screening phase, additional hair is taken from the original specimen and prepped for Extraction. During this process, the drug compounds are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), making hair drug screening particularly challenging to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is carried out using methods such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumptively positive are adequately washed as part of the confirmation process when necessary. The complete laboratory progression from Accessioning to Confirmation adheres to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation requirements.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests," this test evaluates the hair strand itself, not the follicle underneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Baldwin, WI
In Baldwin, WI, hair follicle testing stands out against traditional urine tests due to its superior detection abilities and dependability. The extended detection period and resistance to manipulation make it an efficient tool for comprehensive drug use screening, reinforcing the reliability of results.
Extended Detection Window in Baldwin, WI
Hair follicle testing provides a prolonged detection period of up to 90 days, giving employers in Baldwin, WI an extensive overview of an individual's substance usage history. This method enhances insights into applicant or employee behavior over a longer timeframe, making it invaluable for maintaining workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Baldwin, WI
Employing hair follicle tests in Baldwin, WI significantly mitigates the risk of tampering. The structure of hair samples hinders adulteration attempts, ensuring that results remain accurate and trustworthy, thereby supporting sound decision-making based on credible data.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Baldwin, WI
The presence of our nationwide testing centers in Baldwin, WI offers convenience, allowing for accessible and prompt testing services. This widespread coverage ensures seamless and efficient testing processes, facilitating hassle-free service experiences for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Baldwin, WI
Our straightforward and confidential procedure meets the needs of those in Baldwin, WI, highlighting privacy and ease of application. From order to testing and result reception, the process is designed to be user-friendly while upholding client confidentiality and data protection rigorously.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Baldwin, WI
With competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, our services in Baldwin, WI deliver excellent value to companies large and small. The cost-effectiveness and rapid result delivery provide reassurance and satisfaction, aligning with financial and operational expectations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Baldwin, WI
Precision and speed are hallmarks of hair follicle tests in Baldwin, WI. These tests are renowned for their quick and accurate detection, providing reliable results in substance use identification. This method ensures confidence in test outcomes, making them a preferred choice for meticulous assessments.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Baldwin, WI
Employers in Baldwin, WI can leverage hair follicle testing to uphold drug-free workplace policies, ensuring compliance and reducing legal liabilities. The robust nature of these tests bolsters workforce safety while providing assurance and peace of mind regarding compliance efforts.