Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly recognized as a robust method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by holding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is taken from near the scalp, it can offer a detection period of up to approximately 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair collection is uncomplicated, relatively hard to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of around 200 hair strands (about the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the prime sample size for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair can be utilized. When we mention head hair, it involves only scalp hair. Body hair covers all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The routine in laboratory processing of a drug test outcome involves four crucial stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase, incorporating a sample into the lab's framework. This phase entails ensuring the sample was securely sealed and correctly transported, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfilling any additional data input not already provided by an electronic chain of custody setup.
Screening consists of a preliminary quick check for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is a cost-efficient approach for ruling out drug use in most samples, any positive results must be confirmed for legal admissibility. Samples showing presumptive positivity during Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a sample is identified as presumptive positive in Screening, further hair is retrieved from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at lower concentrations than seen in other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a challenging process.
Confirmation of positive screening outcomes is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positivity are washed before confirmation as needed. The entire lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation conforming to ISO/IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently described as "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
In Albany, GA, hair follicle testing surpasses urine analysis with its superior detection capabilities. It not only extends the detection window significantly but also provides more consistent and trustworthy data. The reliability of hair testing makes it the go-to option for those looking for enhanced accuracy and greater confidence in drug testing outcomes.
Hair follicle tests stand out in Albany, GA, for their ability to track drug use over an extensive period—up to 90 days. This extended window offers a thorough view into an individual's substance consumption history, beneficial for employers seeking assurance about a candidate's past behavior, making it a valuable screening tool.
With hair follicle tests, Albany, GA, sees a drastic reduction in sample manipulation risks. These tests offer a secure and tamper-resistant method, ensuring quality results. The reliability of this method makes it a trusted choice for many, as attempts to alter test outcomes are virtually nullified.
Our nationwide network of testing centers in Albany, GA, guarantees effortless access to diagnostic services. This ease of availability ensures individuals and businesses can quickly undertake necessary tests, making the process both convenient and efficient, eliminating any delays typically associated with testing procedures.
The process of hair follicle testing in Albany, GA, is straightforward and discreet. From ordering to receiving results, the steps are clear and respect confidentiality, ensuring the privacy of all individuals involved. This simple procedure encourages more to participate, knowing their information remains secure.
In Albany, GA, our pricing for hair follicle testing is competitive, backed by a swift turnaround time. Companies of all sizes appreciate the value offered, knowing that affordability doesn't compromise the quality or speed of results. Fast services at reasonable costs ensure satisfaction and reliability.
The speed and accuracy of hair follicle testing in Albany, GA, set it apart. It quickly identifies even the slightest presence of drugs, providing reliable results that can be trusted by employers and legal bodies alike. Precision is the hallmark of this advanced test, delivering results rapidly without compromising accuracy, ensuring stakeholders can make informed decisions.
Employers in Albany, GA, can find peace of mind with hair follicle testing, aligning perfectly with drug-free workplace policies. It not only helps maintain safety standards but also ensures compliance with relevant legislation, further reducing any potential legal consequences. This approach fosters a healthier work environment for all.
