Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for uncovering drug and alcohol consumption. Hair strands hold a long-term record of these substances by embedding biomarkers in their developing fibers. When harvested near the scalp, hair can offer an approximate 3-month period of detection for both alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, moderately resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch section of around 200 hair strands (comparable in width to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal amount for both screening and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. It's suggested to use a jeweler’s scale for measuring the sample weight. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The key phases in the lab analysis of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where the sample is integrated into the lab's system. This involves checking proper sealing and shipment of the sample, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data required by the electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial assessment for potential drugs of abuse. While cost-effective for eliminating the possibility of drug use in most samples, to be valid in legal settings, a positive screening must be followed by confirmation. Any samples testing presumptively positive require a secondary confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample in preparation for Extraction. This phase involves retrieving drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), emphasizing the complexity of hair drug screening.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS is used for the Confirmation of any positive screening results. All samples presumed positive undergo washing as necessary before confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory procedure, from Accessioning through Confirmation, adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specialization and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", these evaluations assess the hair strand itself rather than the follicle under the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing to traditional urine tests, the benefits become apparent. Hair testing in Wonnie, KY offers superior accuracy and reliability, capturing a larger timeframe of substance use. Unlike urine tests, hair samples retain drug traces for longer durations, providing a more comprehensive view of consumption behavior.
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing is a significant advantage for employers in Wonnie, KY. By detecting drug use up to 90 days back, this method grants a thorough insight into an individual's substance use history. Such extensive coverage assists in making informed decisions during hiring or routine assessments.
Employers in Wonnie, KY, can rely on the hair follicle tests as a tamper-resistant solution to substance testing. The collection process makes it substantially difficult to manipulate results, ensuring that the outcomes are both authentic and reliable, ultimately giving peace of mind regarding the integrity of the testing.
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient testing locations across Wonnie, KY, and nationwide, making access seamless and stress-free. Our centers are strategically located to ensure quick and easy testing for individuals and organizations, thus easing the burden of finding reliable testing facilities.
The hair follicle testing process in Wonnie, KY, is designed to be simple and confidential. The order, collection, and results delivery are streamlined for ease and privacy. Individuals can be assured their information is secure, providing a worry-free experience from start to finish.
With a commitment to competitive pricing, our hair follicle testing services in Wonnie, KY, offer affordable solutions to businesses of all sizes. Coupled with fast turnaround times, clients receive excellent value and efficiency, ensuring that project timelines and budgets are adhered to without compromise.
Hair follicle drug testing in Wonnie, KY, is renowned for delivering rapid and precise outcomes. The accuracy in tracing substance use is unparalleled, ensuring that results reflect true consumption patterns. This method is praised for its reliability, making it a preferred choice for those seeking credible analysis in substance screening.
Hair follicle testing ensures compliance and safety in the workplace. In Wonnie, KY, businesses benefit from using this method by protecting themselves legally and maintaining a drug-free environment. This enhances operational safety and provides peace of mind for employers and employees alike.
