Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and drugs by retaining biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When harvested near the scalp, hair can reveal up to a 3-month timeframe of drug and alcohol consumption. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively resistant to tampering, and simple to dispatch.
A 1.5-inch segment comprising around 200 hairs (comparable to a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the ideal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or panels beyond 10, 150mg of the sample is advised. We suggest utilizing a jeweler's scale to weigh the sample. If scalp hair isn't available, a similar quantity of body hair may be used. In discussing head hair, we reference only scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four key procedures in the laboratory processing of a drug test outcome involve Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial sample processing into a laboratory's system. This encompasses ensuring the sample's proper sealing and shipment, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any other data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening consists of an initial swift evaluation for drugs of abuse. Though Screening is a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug consumption in most samples, a positive screening necessitates confirmation to be valid in court. Any presumptively positive Screening samples mandate an additional confirmation.
When a sample is presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. During this process, drugs are extracted from hair at a significantly lower concentration compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, underscoring why hair drug screening is the most challenging process to execute.
Confirmation of positive screening results utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is inspected under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being referred to as "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Jonesboro, IN
When comparing hair follicle tests to traditional urine screenings, several advantages emerge. The wider detection window and greater accuracy of hair testing make it a superior option. Employers in Jonesboro benefit from the dependable results that reflect long-term substance use, offering a more comprehensive view of an individual’s history.
Extended Detection Window in Jonesboro, IN
The ability to trace drug use over a prolonged period makes hair follicle examinations invaluable in Jonesboro. These tests reveal substance use statuses up to 90 days back, providing a detailed picture of one’s substance habits. Employers gain a comprehensive overview, aiding in informed decision-making processes.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Jonesboro, IN
Hair follicle tests offer unparalleled security against tampering. Their unique collection method significantly reduces the chances of sample alteration, ensuring that results are both reliable and unquestionable. For employers and other stakeholders, this method guarantees peace of mind regarding the integrity of the tests.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Jonesboro, IN
With numerous testing centers nationwide, including locations in Jonesboro, accessing necessary drug testing is convenient and stress-free. Our widespread facilities guarantee quick and easy services without hassle, accommodating the needs of individuals and employers looking for efficient testing options.
Simple, Confidential Process in Jonesboro, IN
Our process is both simple and confidential, ensuring privacy throughout the testing experience. From ordering to receipt of results, the emphasis is on ease and discretion, protecting individuals' private information and making this critical procedure straightforward for all involved parties.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Jonesboro, IN
Competitive pricing and quick turnaround times highlight our commitment to excellent value in Jonesboro. With efficient processes and cost-effective options, we cater to companies of any size, providing reassurance and rapid results, contributing to informed decision-making in a timely manner.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Jonesboro, IN
In Jonesboro, hair follicle testing offers a precise and swift solution for identifying recent substance intake. Unlike other testing methods, these tests provide high accuracy rates in detecting various substances, ensuring reliable results quickly. With quick turnaround times, individuals and employers can count on timely and truthful information from these tests.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Jonesboro, IN
Implementing hair follicle testing in Jonesboro ensures compliance with workplace drug policies, substantially mitigating legal risks. Maintaining a drug-free environment is crucial for safety and productivity, and these tests reinforce that commitment by providing accurate and comprehensive screenings.