Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows, hair provides a long-term record of alcohol and drug intake. When samples are taken near the scalp, they can offer up to a three-month detection window for alcohol and drugs. Hair samples are easy to collect, difficult to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment containing around 200 hairs (equivalent to the diameter of a #2 pencil) near the scalp is needed to obtain the ideal 100mg sample for testing and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a minimum of 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equal quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair. "Body hair" includes facial hair, armpit hair, etc.
Process Overview
The key stages in the lab processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes initial processing in the lab's system. This process entails checking that the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry that is not provided through an electronic custody chain system.
Screening is an initial swift assessment for substance use. While cost-effective for negating drug use in most samples, a positive screening outcome requires confirmation for court validity. Any samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If Screening yields a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the initial sample for Extraction. Here, drugs are drawn out from hair at significantly lower concentrations than seen in other methods (e.g., urine or saliva), presenting challenges in hair drug analysis.
For any positive screen, Verification is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS methodologies. All samples preliminarily positive undergo cleaning before confirmation as necessary. The comprehensive lab process from Accessioning to Verification is evaluated under CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation besides accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly referred to as "hair follicle tests", the process assesses the hair strand rather than the subscalp hair follicle.
Hair follicle testing in East Pasadena, CA, provides clear advantages over urine tests by showcasing superior detection ability and reliability. Employers and institutions favor this method for its extensive detection window and enhanced security against tampering. While urine tests may capture recent use, hair tests reveal long-term patterns, offering a comprehensive view of substance use over time.
East Pasadena, CA, benefits from hair follicle tests that trace drug use over an extended timeframe, sometimes up to 90 days. This comprehensive window offers businesses and organizations a complete history of an individual's drug habits. Such detailed analysis aids employers in understanding long-term behavior, enhancing their decision-making regarding potential hires or current employees.
Hair follicle testing in East Pasadena, CA, is a robust shield against sample tampering. Its method of collection and analysis significantly lowers the potential for adulteration, ensuring reliable and uncontested outcomes. This level of security offers peace of mind for organizations relying on test results for critical decisions, reinforcing the integrity of the testing process.
Our nationwide network, along with local centers in East Pasadena, CA, highlights the convenience of accessing hair follicle drug testing services. We offer a simple, hassle-free process for individuals and organizations needing quick and efficient testing. This extensive coverage ensures everyone can access the needed services without undue delay or logistical challenges.
The process for using hair follicle drug testing in East Pasadena, CA, is designed to be straightforward and confidential. Ordering, administering, and obtaining results is handled with the utmost ease and discretion, addressing any privacy concerns effectively. This streamlined approach guarantees a user-friendly experience, ensuring confidentiality is never compromised.
In East Pasadena, CA, we offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround on hair follicle drug testing. Our affordable rates and rapid result processing provide excellent value to businesses of all sizes, ensuring that cost-effective solutions meet high-quality standards. This commitment to affordability and efficiency supports organizations in managing their drug testing needs adeptly.
In East Pasadena, CA, hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched precision and speed. With advanced technology, these tests provide high accuracy in detecting drugs, offering a superior alternative to traditional methods. The sophisticated analysis ensures swift and reliable results, empowering individuals and organizations to make informed decisions promptly.
Employers in East Pasadena, CA, trust hair follicle testing to ensure compliance with drug-free workplace standards. This method not only adheres to legal requirements but also minimizes risks and promotes a safer work environment. By incorporating this rigorous testing approach, businesses can maintain their commitment to safety and responsibility with confidence.
