Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective resource for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. The hair's ability to trap biomarkers within its fibers provides a historical record of alcohol and drug use over time. When hair is cut close to the scalp, it offers roughly a 3-month window for detecting alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to mail.
Collecting a 1.5-inch sample consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the preferred amount for both screening and confirmation processes. For tests like the EtG, add-ons, or those exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. It is advisable to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, body hair of equal quantity can be used. References to head hair specifically mean scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processes of a drug test encompass four essential steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of moving a sample into the laboratory system, ensuring that it was properly sealed and shipped, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and carrying out any extra data entry that an electronic chain of custody system might not provide.
Screening is a preliminary evaluation for the presence of drugs. Though it’s economical in ruling out drug use in many samples, a positive screening requires confirmation for court admissibility. Presumptively positive samples in Screening need further confirmation.
If Screening suggests a positive result, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction process. This stage sees drugs extracted from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most intricate to execute.
Confirmation of positive results from screening is done via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples receive washing as necessary before confirmation. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is audited under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 standards accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly called "hair follicle tests", they actually examine the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why does hair follicle testing take precedence over urine testing in Saint Anthony, IA? Largely due to its enhanced reliability and detection accuracy. Hair tests reveal a longer history of substance use, unlike traditional urine tests, which can be limited in their detection window. This results in a more thorough screening process, providing greater assurance for employers.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Saint Anthony, IA, is a standout feature. By covering a period of up to 90 days, hair tests offer a thorough insight into an individual’s substance history. This makes it an invaluable resource for employers seeking a complete understanding of an applicant’s or employee's past substance use.
In Saint Anthony, IA, the hair follicle testing method is notably resistant to tampering. Samples collected are difficult to adulterate, providing trustworthy and unwavering results. This makes hair tests a reliable choice for ensuring the integrity of the testing process, giving employers and individuals confidence in the authenticity of the results.
Convenience is paramount with our testing locations nationwide, including in Saint Anthony, IA. Access to testing services is made swift and hassle-free, thanks to a wide network of centers. This ensures individuals and companies can avail themselves of necessary tests effortlessly, minimizing disruption and maximizing accessibility.
The hair testing process in Saint Anthony, IA is simple and confidential. From ordering a test to receiving results, the steps are straightforward and designed to protect privacy. This ensures that both individual and corporate clients can undergo testing with ease and discretion, addressing any concerns about confidentiality.
Competitive pricing and fast turnaround times define our hair testing services in Saint Anthony, IA. We provide excellent value, ensuring companies of all sizes can access efficient drug testing without financial strain. Our quick result delivery means clients can act promptly, benefitting from both cost-effectiveness and productivity.
In Saint Anthony, IA, hair follicle drug tests are known for their precision and speed. They provide quick and accurate results, rendering them an impressive tool for detecting substance use effectively. Unlike conventional methods, hair follicle tests boast high accuracy levels, making them the preferred choice for many seeking trustworthy results.
Employers in Saint Anthony, IA can achieve compliance and peace of mind through hair follicle testing. By adhering to drug-free workplace policies, potential legal risks are reduced, and workplace safety is enhanced. The effectiveness of hair testing ensures that employers can maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
