Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair offers a long-term record of drug and alcohol consumption by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the hair as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can provide approximately a 3-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. It is easy to collect, reasonably resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a standard pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, ideal for initial and confirmatory testing. For EtG, additional tests, or panels exceeding 10, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample on a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be collected, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. When mentioning head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair includes all other types (such as facial or underarm hair).
Process Overview
There are four central steps in processing a drug test laboratory sample: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase of integrating a sample into the lab's system. This step ensures the sample is properly sealed and transported, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fills in data not supplied by electronic chain of custody systems.
Screening checks samples for drug use indicators. Although Screening inexpensively excludes drug use in most samples, a positive result must be confirmed for courtroom validity. Samples that test positive in Screening require a secondary confirmation.
When a Screening stage result is presumptively positive, additional hair is used from the original sample for Extraction. This process retrieves drugs from hair at concentrations much lower than those used in urine or oral fluid methods, hence why hair drug testing is highly challenging.
Confirmation of positive results employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples undergo pre-confirmation washing as necessary. The full laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is subject to CPA (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite the term "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ash Grove, KS
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection capabilities. It showcases a higher accuracy rate and is less susceptible to manipulation or adulteration. This makes hair testing a preferable option for those seeking dependable drug screening methods.
Extended Detection Window in Ash Grove, KS
Hair follicle testing boasts an extended detection period, identifying drug use from up to 90 days prior. This comprehensive view into an individual's substance history assists employers in making informed decisions regarding potential or current employees.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ash Grove, KS
The robust nature of hair follicle testing significantly mitigates the risk of sample tampering, ensuring authenticity. Its resilience against sample adulteration provides reliable and irrefutable results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ash Grove, KS
Our nationwide network of testing centers ensures that residents of Ash Grove, KS can access drug testing services with ease. This widespread availability simplifies the testing process, making it quick and stress-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ash Grove, KS
Our straightforward and discreet testing process addresses privacy concerns while ensuring ease of use for ordering and obtaining results. This fosters a secure environment for individuals wary of confidentiality issues.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ash Grove, KS
Our competitive pricing and swift result delivery offer excellent value for businesses of all sizes. This combination supports companies in maintaining efficient and budget-conscious drug testing programs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ash Grove, KS
Hair follicle drug tests provide quick, precise, and dependable outcomes. Their high accuracy in identifying substance use enables swift decisions for employers and authorities, ensuring a streamlined process. The reliability of these tests instills confidence in the results, supporting informed decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ash Grove, KS
Utilizing hair follicle tests ensures adherence to workplace drug policies, greatly reducing legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. This compliance affords employers peace of mind while maintaining a secure work environment.
