Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests have garnered recognition as an effective means for identifying drug and alcohol use. Hair captures a long-term record of substances by embedding metabolites in the fibers of the hair as it grows. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can indicate substance use up to roughly a three-month period. Hair is straightforward to collect, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to send.
A 1.5-inch section of about 200 strands (approximately the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for screening and confirmation. For EtG enhancements or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is advisable. If scalp hair can’t be sourced, a comparable quantity of body hair is acceptable. References to head hair mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair covers all other types, such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The essential steps in laboratory processing for a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step of assimilating a sample into a laboratory system. It ensures the sample was correctly sealed and transmitted, assigns a LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number) at random, and completes any data entry not already captured electronically.
Screening functions as an initial spot check for substance misuse. Although cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most cases, positive screens require confirmation for legal validity. Presumptively positive screenings necessitate an additional confirmation step.
If Screening indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the sample for Extraction. Here, substances are drawn at a much lower concentration compared to methods like urine or oral fluid testing, making hair drug screening a more challenging procedure.
Confirmation of a positive Screening result uses GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS technologies. Presumptively positive specimens undergo washing prior to confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process is checked under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though often termed "hair follicle tests," the analysis is performed on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Alamo, CA
Comparatively, hair testing offers numerous advantages over traditional urine tests in Alamo, CA. Hair samples provide a longer detection window and enhance accuracy, effectively catching substance use that urine tests might miss. This approach is especially valued by employers committed to rigorous drug-free workplace policies, as it ensures comprehensive evaluation and unmatched reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Alamo, CA
In Alamo, CA, hair follicle testing is praised for its extended detection capability, spanning up to 90 days. This allows employers to gain deeper insights into an individual's historical substance use patterns. The extensive window surpasses other testing methods, thereby supporting more informed hiring and personnel management decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Alamo, CA
Hair follicle tests are noted for their tamper-resistant nature in Alamo, CA, significantly reducing the chances of adulteration. The testing process's inherent design denies any scope for manipulation, ensuring that results remain consistent and verifiable. Therefore, this method offers a trustworthy solution for detecting substance use with absolute confidence.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Alamo, CA
Accredited Drug Testing proudly offers easily accessible locations for hair follicle testing in Alamo, CA, and throughout the nation. This ensures that testing services are straightforward and convenient, eliminating hassle and making testing accessible and swift, regardless of geographical location.
Simple, Confidential Process in Alamo, CA
The testing process in Alamo, CA, is crafted for simplicity and confidentiality, emphasizing ease of order, collection, and result reception. Concerns regarding privacy are comprehensively addressed, ensuring that the entire procedure is smooth and respects personal confidentiality, setting a standard for discrete service.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Alamo, CA
Offering competitive costs and expedited processing, Alamo, CA harbors excellent value concerning hair follicle drug tests. Businesses benefit from economically sensible solutions and rapid report availability. Such affordability coupled with speed ensures that organizations of varied sizes receive optimal service without compromising peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Alamo, CA
Hair follicle drug testing in Alamo, CA, provides rapid and precise confirmation of substance use. Renowned for superior accuracy, this method ensures that even trace amounts of drug use are detected with efficiency and reliability. Quick processing times mean timely information for critical decision-making, optimizing the testing process for both businesses and individuals.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Alamo, CA
Utilizing hair testing aligns with workplace drug policies and enhances organizational safety in Alamo, CA. Employers benefit from confidence in workforce integrity, lessening legal complications by adhering to regulated standards. This trust in compliance fosters an environment of assurance and stability for all stakeholders involved.
