Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. The strands of hair incorporate a prolonged timeline of substance use by embedding chemical traces in the developing hair fiber. Hair samples taken near the scalp can reveal substance use spanning up to roughly three months. The collection process is straightforward, with minimal risk of tampering, and convenient for transportation.
An ideal 1.5-inch section consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) near the scalp equates to around 100mg of hair, suitable for testing and validation. For tests like EtG, additional screenings, or those exceeding 10 panels, a collection of 150mg is recommended. A jeweler’s scale is advisable to measure the sample. In case scalp hair cannot be provided, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically denote scalp hair. All other types of hair, such as facial or axillary, are categorized under body hair.
Process Overview
The drug testing procedure in the lab consists of four primary phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the opening step where a sample is introduced into a lab's framework. This step involves the verification of the sample’s seal and shipment integrity, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing supplementary data entry that may not be captured by an electronic custody chain system.
Screening is the preliminary assessment for illicit substances. While Screening is a budget-friendly method to exclude drug presence in most samples, any result suggesting a positive must undergo confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples flagged as potentially positive in Screening must be substantiated with further validation.
If a specimen tests potentially positive during the Screening phase, additional hair from the original sample is processed for Extraction. This phase involves isolating drugs at lower concentrations than in other tests (like urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing particularly challenging.
To validate a positive result from Screening, GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS are utilized. All samples indicating a presumptive positive are cleansed before confirmation if required. The entire procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, undergoes review according to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair classification and ISO/IEC 17025 certification standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", these tests assess the hair strands rather than the root under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Yuba, WI
The hair follicle method significantly outshines traditional urine assessments by offering superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests detect substance use much further back, showcasing a better overall effectiveness. This makes them a preferred choice among employers and professionals looking for precise drug-use insights.
Extended Detection Window in Yuba, WI
Hair follicle testing surpasses other methods by offering an extensive detection window of up to 90 days. This capability allows employers to view an individual's substance history comprehensively. It aids in assessing long-term use, which is crucial for positions requiring high levels of trust and responsibility.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Yuba, WI
Hair follicle tests drastically reduce the possibility of sample tampering, offering results that are trustworthy and beyond reproach. The method ensures that the test results remain uncontaminated and genuine, reassuring employers and officials in situations where ensuring the integrity of the test sample is crucial.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Yuba, WI
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures easy access to testing services across the nation, including local options in Yuba. The convenience of nearby centers guarantees a quick and hassle-free testing experience for all, facilitating immediate service without unnecessary travel.
Simple, Confidential Process in Yuba, WI
Our straightforward and discreet procedure for test ordering, sample collection, and result retrieval alleviates privacy concerns. Ensuring confidentiality and ease of use, our service is designed to address user worries efficiently, simplifying the testing experience from start to finish.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Yuba, WI
We offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times, which provide exceptional value for businesses of every size. Our affordable services ensure companies can maintain their standards without financial strain, paired with the reliability of prompt results.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Yuba, WI
Hair follicle tests offer unmatched precision and quick results, crucial for those needing swift and accurate evaluations. These tests boast an incredible accuracy rate in identifying recent and long-term substance use, providing essential answers efficiently. With such accuracy, hair tests become indispensable in various settings.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Yuba, WI
Adopting hair follicle testing helps assure adherence to workplace drug-free mandates. It mitigates legal exposure and bolsters the safety and productivity of the workplace. With this method, employers can rest assured that they are compliant and proactive in maintaining a secure environment.
