Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has emerged as an influential method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. The hair provides an extended chronological record by encasing biomarkers within its fibers during growth. When procured near the scalp, it offers an approximate three-month retrospective window for alcohol and drug detection. Collecting hair is straightforward, fairly resistant to tampering, and convenient for transport.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising around 200 hairs (roughly the circumference of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp equates to 100mg, which is the optimal quantity for assessment and confirmation. For EtG, additional screens, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. The specimen's weight should be measured using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is inaccessible, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be obtained. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
Drug test results undergo four primary stages in lab processing: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
In Accessioning, the sample is initially integrated into the laboratory's system. This step verifies the sample’s seal and transport integrity, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any supplementary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening entails a preliminary evaluation for commonly misused substances. While cost-effective for eliminating drug usage in most samples, positive results from screening necessitate confirmation for legal validity. Suspected positive samples from Screening warrant secondary verification.
Presumptive positives in Screening prompt further extraction of hair from the original sample, preparing it for Extraction. This phase involves drug isolation from hair at reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), making hair drug testing more challenging to conduct.
Positive findings from screening are substantiated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All suspected positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if required. The comprehensive lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests," this examination analyzes the hair itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Monee, IL - Hair follicle testing offers distinct advantages over traditional urine tests. For one, it provides a much longer detection window, capturing up to 90 days of an individual's drug use history.
In comparison, urine tests offer a shorter detection window, commonly missing long-term drug use patterns. Thus, hair analysis is often preferred for its comprehensive insight into substance history.
Extended Detection Window in Monee, IL - Unlike shorter-term methods, hair follicle tests provide a large capture window of up to 90 days, giving unparalleled insight into a person’s drug usage.
Employers benefit greatly from this expanded detection period, which provides a more detailed view of an individual's long-term substance habits, crucial for making informed decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Monee, IL - Hair follicle testing minimizes the chance of sample tampering. This method provides strong assurance against adulteration often associated with other testing methods.
This approach ensures that the results obtained are both reliable and unquestionable, bolstering the credibility of the testing process significantly.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Monee, IL - Our wide network of testing centers ensures that getting a test is quick and hassle-free.
No matter where you are in Monee, IL, or beyond, our centers provide easy access, high convenience, and efficient support to meet all your drug testing needs nationwide.
Simple, Confidential Process in Monee, IL - The testing procedure is straightforward and prioritizes confidentiality throughout the process.
From ordering to receiving results, every step is designed to be user-friendly and protect privacy, alleviating concerns often associated with drug testing.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Monee, IL - Our pricing is competitive, ensuring that businesses of all sizes can afford reliable testing options.
The fast turnaround times for receiving results make our service both cost-effective and efficient, a balance that benefits business operations greatly.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Monee, IL - When it comes to detecting substance use, hair follicle tests stand out for their precision. These tests cut through uncertainties, offering data you can depend on thanks to their high accuracy rates.
The process of a hair follicle test ensures that results are not only quick but also delivered with incredible accuracy, giving employers a clear picture of an individual's substance use history.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Monee, IL - Utilizing hair follicle testing enhances compliance with workplace policies and promotes a drug-free environment.
This method reduces the potential legal risks faced by employers and helps enhance overall safety within the workplace, serving as a strong deterrent against substance abuse.