Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive historical record of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair strand as it grows. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can offer up to a roughly 3-month period for detecting drugs and alcohol. Hair is easy to collect, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch sample consisting of around 200 hairs (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additions, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, the equivalent amount of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types such as facial and axillary hair.
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This step includes checking that the sample was sealed and transported correctly, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is an initial assessment for illegal drug use. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive result from screening requires validation to be court-admissible. Samples that test positive in Screening must undergo a secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and readied for Extraction. In this step, substances are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or saliva, which makes hair drug testing one of the most complex methods to conduct.
The Confirmation of positive screening results is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that preliminarily test positive are washed before confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes scrutiny under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Bondurant, IA
In Bondurant, IA, hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests by offering superior detection accuracy. This innovative method allows for a more reliable analysis, making it a preferred choice for employers and professionals seeking accurate testing solutions.
The extended detection window gives a clearer view of an individual's substance use history.
Extended Detection Window in Bondurant, IA
Hair follicle tests in Bondurant, IA, offer an unparalleled detection window of up to 90 days. This extensive period allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance use history, providing valuable insights into behavior over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Bondurant, IA
One of the key advantages of hair follicle testing in Bondurant, IA, is its resistance to tampering. The stringent collection process ensures low risks of sample adulteration, offering results that are both reliable and unquestionable.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Bondurant, IA
Our nationally dispersed testing centers, including those in Bondurant, IA, offer unparalleled convenience. This widespread availability ensures that individuals and employers have quick and easy access to necessary testing services at any time.
Simple, Confidential Process in Bondurant, IA
The hair follicle testing process in Bondurant, IA, is both simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, each step is designed to prioritize privacy and ease of use, addressing concerns and ensuring a smooth experience for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Bondurant, IA
In Bondurant, IA, hair follicle testing is known for its competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. This combination provides excellent value for companies, ensuring they receive top-notch testing services without straining their budget.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Bondurant, IA
In Bondurant, IA, hair follicle drug tests are celebrated for their speed and precision. These tests are designed to deliver highly accurate results, ensuring that substance use is detected efficiently. Their accuracy is unmatched, making them a reliable choice for individuals and organizations alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Bondurant, IA
Hair follicle testing in Bondurant, IA, aids employers in maintaining workplace compliance with drug-free policies. This reliable method reduces legal risks and fosters a safer working environment, giving peace of mind to employers invested in their workforce's well-being.
