Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Stonington, CO

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. The hair captures biomarkers in its strands, offering a prolonged record of substance use. When trimmed near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol use over a roughly 90-day period. Collection of hair is straightforward, relatively tamper-resistant, and easily transportable.

A 1.5-inch sample, approximately 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil), nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additions, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It is advisable to use a jeweler’s scale for precise measurement. In cases where scalp hair is unobtainable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When head hair is mentioned, it refers exclusively to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).

Process Overview

The primary steps in the lab process for drug testing results comprise Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning covers the initial intake of a sample into a lab’s system. This step verifies that the sample is properly sealed and shipped, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and includes any additional data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening provides a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although cost-efficient to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen result requires verification to be valid for legal proceedings. Any samples with a presumptive positive screen necessitate a secondary confirmation.

For samples with a presumptive positive in Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original sample and readied for Extraction. This step extracts drugs from hair at notably lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug testing as the most challenging methodology to perform.

Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is done using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing prior to confirmation as needed. The entire process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests reveal drug use up to 90 days, whereas urine tests offer a shorter detection span.
• Challenge to falsify: Cheating a hair drug test proves very difficult, enhancing result accuracy.
• Historical insight: It unveils patterns of drug use over time, beyond just recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent use: Drugs become noticeable in hair approximately 5-7 days after use.
• Expense: Hair drug tests typically cost more than other methods.
• Result variability: Factors such as hair color and individual growth differences can impact drug metabolite levels in hair.

Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

When comparing hair and urine drug tests in Stonington, CO, hair testing offers distinct advantages. Its longer detection window and resistance to tampering make it more reliable. Unlike urine tests, hair testing can reveal a history of drug use up to 90 days, providing a more comprehensive view of an individual’s substance use.

Extended Detection Window

Employers in Stonington, CO, benefit from hair follicle testing due to its extended detection period. Capable of revealing drug use over the past 90 days, this method offers an in-depth insight into one’s substance history. It equips employers with the information needed to make more informed hiring decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Hair follicle testing in Stonington, CO, offers a tamper-resistant approach to drug testing. By significantly reducing the possibility of sample manipulation, it provides unquestionable reliability. This security ensures that results are trustworthy, contributing to a safer and more compliant workplace environment.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Our network of testing centers across Stonington, CO, and nationwide ensures testing is convenient and hassle-free. With numerous accessible locations, obtaining a hair follicle drug test is straightforward and efficient, allowing individuals to access services quickly and at their convenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

The process for hair follicle testing in Stonington, CO, is both simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step protects privacy while ensuring ease of use. Individuals can feel secure knowing their information is handled with the utmost care, ensuring confidentiality throughout.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Stonington, CO, our hair follicle testing services are competitively priced, offering excellent value. With fast turnaround times, companies of all sizes can benefit from cost-effective and efficient testing solutions, ensuring they receive the results they need without delay.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Stonington, CO, hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its precision and speed. With superior accuracy, it detects substance use reliably, ensuring peace of mind for both employers and individuals. A quick turnaround time ensures that results are available promptly, facilitating informed decision-making in a timely manner.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Choosing hair follicle testing ensures compliance for employers in Stonington, CO. This method supports workplace drug-free policies effectively, reducing potential legal risks. By promoting safety and peace of mind, it aids in maintaining a secure working environment for all employees.

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