Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utility of hair testing has become notable for its effectiveness in detecting substances like drugs and alcohol. Hair offers a comprehensive history of substance use by capturing biomarkers within the structure of the hair strands as they grow. When cut close to the scalp, a hair sample can reflect a substance use timeline extending up to roughly ninety days. Hair is straightforward to collect, resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of roughly 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for analysis. For EtG, other additional screenings, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample weighing 150mg is advised. The hair specimen should be measured with a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent mass of body hair can be used. "Head hair" specifically refers to hair from the scalp, whereas "body hair" covers other types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory analysis of a drug test comprises four main phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial process of entering a sample into a lab's records. This step includes ensuring the sample was sealed and transported correctly, generating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data logging not captured by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening executes a swift preliminary check for the presence of drugs. While this step is economical for discounting drug usage in many samples, a positive indication must be validated to be legally acceptable. Samples showing presumptive positive results require additional confirmation.
In cases where a sample tests presumptive positive during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. During Extraction, drugs are isolated from the hair at much lower concentrations than in other types of testing (such as urine or oral fluid), highlighting the complexity of hair drug testing.
Positive screening results are verified using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Any samples that are presumptively positive are washed as needed before confirmation. The entire validation process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although occasionally termed "hair follicle tests," the examination targets the hair strands themselves, rather than the follicles beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Port Allen, LA
Hair follicle testing in Port Allen, LA, outshines urine tests by offering a longer detection window, up to 90 days. Unlike urine tests that detect recent drug use, hair testing unveils a broader history, providing a comprehensive look at substance consumption. This method circumvents the pitfalls of short-term detection, offering superior accuracy and reliability.
Extended Detection Window in Port Allen, LA
The extended detection window of hair follicle testing in Port Allen, LA, covers up to 90 days. This broader timeframe provides employers with an extensive overview of an individual's substance use history. Looking beyond recent weeks, the test unveils patterns of drug use, helping employers make informed decisions based on long-term data.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Port Allen, LA
Hair follicle tests in Port Allen, LA, offer strong resistance to tampering, ensuring results remain credible and trustworthy. The method's design significantly reduces risks of adulteration or contamination. This tamper-proof aspect provides complete assurance that results are accurately portraying an individual's substance use history, without external interference.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Port Allen, LA
Our network of testing centers nationwide, including those in Port Allen, LA, offers unmatched convenience. Access to testing services is seamless and hassle-free. Whether locally or across the nation, individuals benefit from quick and easy procedures, ensuring that testing needs are met without delay or inconvenience.
Simple, Confidential Process in Port Allen, LA
Our process in Port Allen, LA, ensures simplicity and confidentiality from ordering to results delivery. Every step respects privacy, providing a user-friendly experience. The straightforward approach alleviates concerns over privacy, offering a smooth pathway from sample collection to receiving accurate results, safeguarding personal information.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Port Allen, LA
In Port Allen, LA, our hair follicle testing services offer competitive pricing and swift turnaround times. Companies receive exceptional value, balancing cost with speed and accuracy. This affordable solution delivers quick test results, meeting the needs of organizations seeking efficient and cost-effective options in drug testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Port Allen, LA
In Port Allen, LA, hair follicle testing offers unparalleled accuracy and speed. The method precisely detects drug use, ensuring high reliability. As an advanced form of testing, it ensures rapid results without sacrificing accuracy, making it an invaluable tool for employers and organizations seeking dependable data regarding substance use.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Port Allen, LA
Employers in Port Allen, LA, benefit greatly from hair follicle testing due to its alignment with workplace drug-free policies. Ensuring compliance minimizes legal risks and contributes to a safer working environment. This reliable testing method strengthens policy enforcement, providing peace of mind and upholding organizational integrity.
