Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
An increasingly valued method for identifying substance use involves hair analysis. Hair offers a comprehensive timeline of alcohol and drug consumption by preserving biomarkers within its fibers as it grows. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can reveal alcohol and drug use over about a three-month duration. Hair collection is straightforward, difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
To obtain an optimal sample for testing, a 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hairs (approximating a #2 pencil's thickness) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair. However, for EtG, additional testing, or examinations exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is recommended to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample. If scalp hair is not accessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses other types (like facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The drug testing procedure in the laboratory consists of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing in the lab's system, ensuring correct sealing and shipping, assigning a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and completing necessary data entry missing from the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening functions as a primary examination for substance abuse. Although it's an economical method to preclude drug use for most samples, a positive screening necessitates confirmation for court acceptability. Presumptively positive results in Screening require further confirmation.
Should a sample yield positive results during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. Here, drug substances are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than in alternative methods (such as urine or oral fluids), rendering hair drug screening more challenging.
All positive screening outcomes undergo Confirmation via techniques like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. If needed, presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation. The entire lab procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: While often labeled "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Summerdale, AL
The superiority of hair follicle tests over traditional urine testing lies in their greater detection precision and consistency. Unlike urine tests, hair tests provide an extended window of observation, making it challenging to avoid detection. The rigorous process involved in hair sample collection further enhances reliability, presenting a robust choice for those seeking comprehensive substance use monitoring.
Extended Detection Window in Summerdale, AL
Hair follicle testing offers a substantial advantage with its prolonged observation period, covering up to 90 days. This allows employers a broader outlook on potential drug use, aiding in decisions regarding employee histories. The extended timeline not only assists in current assessments but also provides a retrospective view, serving as a powerful tool for monitoring consistent substance misuse.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Summerdale, AL
Hair follicle tests diminish the likelihood of sample tampering, elevating the credibility of results. The collection process, being closely monitored and nearly foolproof, drastically reduces chances of deceitful sample alterations. This integrity at every collection stage ensures valid results, fostering trust among users relying on test outcomes for essential decisions.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Summerdale, AL
Our extensive network of testing centers throughout the nation and locally in Summerdale guarantees hassle-free and swift access to drug testing services. This availability makes it convenient for individuals and employers to schedule and complete tests promptly, minus the stress of distant travel or complex procedures. Convenience is at the heart of every testing location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Summerdale, AL
We prioritize a straightforward and private process for arranging, undergoing, and obtaining results from hair follicle tests. This simplicity respects users’ privacy, addressing any apprehensions regarding sensitivity and discretion. From initiation to conclusion, every step is handled with a focus on confidentiality and ease, making the entire procedure seamless.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Summerdale, AL
Our competitive pricing strategies, coupled with rapid result delivery, provide exceptional value for businesses of all scales. Budget-friendly options, along with the assurance of quick responses, position our hair follicle drug tests as the ideal choice for companies seeking efficient and cost-effective solutions for substance use monitoring.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Summerdale, AL
Hair follicle drug assessments are renowned for their swiftness and precision. The method's high accuracy in identifying substance use makes it a preferred choice in Summerdale. It ensures quick results without compromising reliability, enhancing trust in the findings. Employers and individuals benefit from swift conclusions, making timely decisions based on precise data.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Summerdale, AL
Incorporating hair follicle testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free initiatives, minimizing legal vulnerabilities and boosting occupational safety. By implementing such assessments, employers secure peace of mind, knowing they are aligned with regulatory standards while maintaining a secure and healthy work environment. The accuracy and tampare-resistance of the test strengthens policy compliance.
