Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has become recognized as an effective means for identifying the use of drugs and alcohol. Hair captures a prolonged timeline of alcohol and drug usage by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. When acquired near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month detection window for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is uncomplicated, relatively tamper-proof, and straightforward to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (roughly the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for testing and validation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or screenings exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When discussing head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair categories (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result primarily involves four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially processed into the laboratory’s system. This step includes ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any outstanding data entry not accounted for by an electronic chain of custody system.
The Screening phase involves a preliminary rapid check for drugs of abuse. While it is a cost-efficient way to eliminate drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive screening result requires confirmation to be permissible in legal contexts. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further validation.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. This process involves extracting drugs at significantly lower concentrations from hair compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is among the most challenging methodologies.
Confirmation of any positive result detected in Screening is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. All samples presumed positive are cleansed before Confirmation as necessary. The complete process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", the examination focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Lake Beulah, WI
When comparing hair and urine drug tests, hair testing emerges as a superior choice in Lake Beulah. Offering unmatched detection accuracy and reliability, hair tests provide a thorough overview of drug use over a longer period, unlike traditional urine tests. This expanded detection capacity ensures employers and legal professionals can make informed judgments.
Extended Detection Window in Lake Beulah, WI
The standout feature of hair follicle testing in Lake Beulah is its extensive detection window. Capable of tracing drug use for up to 90 days, it offers employers a detailed insight into an individual's substance use history, ensuring better-informed employment decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Lake Beulah, WI
Hair follicle testing in Lake Beulah significantly reduces the risk of tampering. Its methodology guarantees reliable results that withstand scrutiny, offering employers and authorities a dependable means of drug testing that is hard to manipulate.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Lake Beulah, WI
The extensive network of testing centers in Lake Beulah and Nationwide guarantees easy and stress-free access to hair follicle drug testing. This wide availability ensures that testing services are always within reach, minimizing inconvenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Lake Beulah, WI
The hair follicle testing process in Lake Beulah is designed for simplicity and confidentiality. From the ordering phase to receiving results, every step is engineered to protect privacy and ensure ease of use, addressing common concerns about security and confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Lake Beulah, WI
Hair follicle testing in Lake Beulah offers competitively priced services and swift result delivery. These cost-effective solutions accommodate various business sizes, providing excellent value and prompt feedback for informed decision-making.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Lake Beulah, WI
Hair follicle drug tests in Lake Beulah exemplify precision and efficacy. Their high degree of accuracy in identifying substance abuse ensures peace of mind for all parties involved. These tests provide rapid results, supporting critical decision-making processes with confidence and conviction.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Lake Beulah, WI
Employers gain substantial reassurance from hair follicle testing in Lake Beulah. By aligning with workplace drug-free policies, these tests mitigate legal risks and elevate workplace safety, fostering an environment of trust and compliance.
