Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The usefulness of hair testing in identifying alcohol and drug consumption is increasingly recognized. Hair offers a prolonged record of drug and alcohol usage by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand as it grows. Gathering hair near the scalp allows for a detection timeframe of up to around 3 months for both drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, resists tampering to some extent, and is easy to transport.
For an ideal screening and confirmation process, a sample of 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair. For EtG, add-on units, and/or assessments exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to use 150mg of the sample. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair may be collected. Regarding head hair, we consider only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The principal stages in processing a drug test in the laboratory are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary stage where a sample is integrated into the lab's system. It involves the verification of proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocation of a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening includes a rapid initial evaluation for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug usage in most samples, a positive Screening result mandates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that are presumptively positive in Screening require secondary validation.
For presumptively positive samples in the Screening stage, additional hair is gathered from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are isolated from hair at a reduced concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or saliva), which is why hair drug screening is considered the most challenging to execute.
Positive screening results are confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo washing if necessary prior to confirmation. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the laboratory process is scrutinized according to CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests", the analysis concerns the hair strand itself, rather than the follicle underneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Guion, AR
In Guion, AR, hair follicle testing offers superior benefits over urine tests. Its superior detection accuracy makes it nearly impossible to manipulate. Unlike urine tests, which can be limited in time frame, hair tests provide an accurate analysis of substance usage over a longer period, enhancing their reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Guion, AR
Hair follicle testing is notable for its extended detection window, spanning up to 90 days. This comprehensive timeframe enables employers in Guion, AR, to thoroughly assess an individual’s drug use history, offering deeper insights than the conventional methods.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Guion, AR
Guion, AR's hair follicle testing stands out due to its tamper-resistant nature, minimizing the likelihood of sample adulteration. This ensures that test results are authentic and reliable, establishing trust in the testing process and providing unquestionable evidence of substance use.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Guion, AR
With a broad network of testing centers nationally and local facilities in Guion, AR, accessing our services is hassle-free. Whether for court-mandated testing or employment checks, the convenience is unmatched, offering rapid and straightforward testing solutions.
Simple, Confidential Process in Guion, AR
The process in Guion, AR, is straightforward and discreet, ensuring privacy at every stage. From ordering to test-taking and results retrieval, confidentiality is prioritized, providing ease of use without compromising personal information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Guion, AR
In Guion, AR, we offer competitive pricing and fast turnaround times, providing excellent value for businesses large and small. Our cost-effective approach ensures companies can maintain a drug-free environment without straining budgets.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Guion, AR
Hair follicle testing in Guion, AR, provides unparalleled precision and quick results. Its high accuracy in uncovering substance use makes it a trustworthy choice over traditional methods. The quick processing of samples ensures that results are delivered expediently, making it a reliable solution for swift testing needs.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Guion, AR
Utilizing hair follicle testing promotes adherence to drug-free workplace policies in Guion, AR. Employers can significantly reduce legal risks while enhancing workplace safety, offering peace of mind that organizational standards are met effectively and consistently.
