Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has established a reputation as an effective means of identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair gives a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug exposure by embedding markers within the growing hair strands. When hair is taken from near the scalp, it can reveal up to roughly a three-month history of alcohol and drug usage. Collecting hair is straightforward, tampering is somewhat challenging, and transport is uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches comprising approximately 200 hair strands (around the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG tests, extra panels, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, it is advised to collect 150mg of the specimen. Utilizing a jeweler’s scale to weigh the specimen is advisable. If there is no scalp hair, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be gathered. The term "head hair" specifically indicates scalp hair. The term "body hair" encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result comprises four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the phase where a sample is initially integrated into the laboratory’s database. This procedure ensures the sample is sealed and dispatched correctly, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any remaining data entry not already provided by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening conducts an initial swift assessment for abusive drug use. Although Screening is a cost-efficient manner to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation to be considered valid in legal settings. Samples yielding a presumptive positive in Screening require further verification.
If a sample yields a presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is drawn from the original sample and readied for Extraction. During Extraction, drugs are drawn from hair at a much lower concentration compared to other methods (like urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening a challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive results following Screening is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumptive positives are cleansed before confirmation if necessary. The entire laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, undergoes evaluation under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being named "hair follicle tests," the analysis is actually conducted on the hair strand and not the follicle under the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Brusly Landing, LA
In comparison to traditional urine tests, hair follicle tests provide enhanced detection capabilities. Their reliability and accuracy outshine more conventional methods, offering a significant advantage in identifying long-term substance use patterns.
Extended Detection Window in Brusly Landing, LA
With an ability to detect drug use over a 90-day span, hair follicle tests give a thorough view of an individual's substance use history. This extensive insight equips employers with a more informed assessment of applicant or employee behavior.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Brusly Landing, LA
The inherent tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing safeguards the integrity of results. This method largely eliminates risks associated with sample adulteration, ensuring result reliability.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Brusly Landing, LA
Our extensive network of testing centers ensures easy access to services. Whether nationwide or locally in Brusly Landing, the process is made accessible and hassle-free for all involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Brusly Landing, LA
Our hair testing process prioritizes privacy and simplicity. From ordering to receiving results, every step ensures confidentiality and ease, addressing any privacy concerns effectively.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Brusly Landing, LA
We provide competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, ensuring value for businesses of any size. Our efficient procedures guarantee both timely results and cost-effectiveness.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Brusly Landing, LA
Hair follicle testing stands out for its precision and swiftness in delivering results. Its capability to comprehensively detect substance use positions it as a top choice for those seeking dependable analysis. By accurately identifying drug presence, these tests offer peace of mind and reliability in decisions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Brusly Landing, LA
Employing hair follicle testing supports adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This reduces legal challenges and bolsters overall workplace safety, ultimately fostering employer confidence.
