Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Winnsboro, LA

What it is, How it works

The use of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can capture a long-term record of drugs and alcohol presence by embedding biomarkers in the strands of growing hair. Sampling hair close to the scalp can reveal a detection period of up to about 3 months for alcohol and other substances. It is easy to obtain, difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.

Collecting a 1.5-inch section consisting of around 200 strands of hair (roughly the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp results in 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and verification. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels over 10, a sample of 150mg is advised. We suggest determining the specimen weight using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, a similar quantity of body hair can be gathered. When mentioning head hair, we refer specifically to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The pivotal steps in processing a drug test in the laboratory include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning pertains to the initial incorporation of the sample into a laboratory system. This process involves ensuring the sample was correctly sealed and sent, creating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any missing data not supplied by an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening consists of a preliminary inspection for illicit drugs. Although Screening offers an economical way to rule out drug use in most samples, any positive screening must be verified to be credible in legal proceedings. Samples that yield a preliminary positive result in Screening require subsequent confirmation.

Should a Screening indicate a presumptive positive, additional hair is taken from the initial batch for Extraction. In this procedure, drugs are retrieved from hair at much lower levels compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluids), which is why hair drug testing remains the most complex method to execute.

Any positive results from Screening are confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples showing presumptive positivity are cleaned before confirmation if necessary. The entire procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is conducted under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair certification and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection window: Hair drug tests can trace drug usage for up to 90 days, as opposed to urine tests which detect use over a shorter timeframe.
• Hard to manipulate: Cheating a hair drug test is highly challenging, ensuring the results are more reliable.
• Indicates usage patterns: It can reveal drug usage trends over time, not merely recent consumption.

Limitations:

• Doesn’t show recent use: Drugs become traceable in hair after about 5-7 days.
• Higher cost: Hair drug testing tends to be more costly than other drug testing techniques.
• Result variations: Aspects like hair color and individual hair growth differences can influence the level of drug metabolites in hair.

Note: Referred to often as "hair follicle tests", these tests evaluate the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Winnsboro, LA - Hair testing offers notable advantages over traditional urine tests. The increased detection window and resistance to tampering make hair follicle tests a superior choice. Their reliability and accuracy ensure trustworthy results, providing a clear picture of substance history.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Winnsboro, LA - Hair follicle testing's ability to identify drug use up to 90 days offers a thorough look at an individual's substance history. This allows employers to make informed decisions based on a comprehensive analysis of an applicant or employee's drug use.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Winnsboro, LA - Hair follicle tests reduce the risk of sample adulteration significantly, giving employers confidence in test results. The method is nearly impossible to cheat, which affords reliable and unquestionable outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Winnsboro, LA - With testing centers across the nation, including in Winnsboro, getting tested is simple and hassle-free. This widespread availability offers quick access to reliable testing services when needed.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Winnsboro, LA - The hair follicle testing procedure is straightforward and discreet, maintaining client privacy. From test ordering to obtaining results, the process is designed to be user-friendly and confidential, easing concerns of individuals involved.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Winnsboro, LA - Our competitive pricing and quick turnaround times provide excellent value. Companies of varying sizes benefit from cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or speed, ensuring peace of mind when it matters most.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Winnsboro, LA - Hair follicle drug tests offer quick and precise detection of substances, helping identify drug use effectively. With an unparalleled level of accuracy, these tests ensure reliable results for both individuals and employers.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Winnsboro, LA - Hair follicle testing ensures workplace compliance with drug-free policies, mitigates legal risks, and enhances workplace safety. Employers gain peace of mind from the assurance of accurate detection methods.

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