Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Middle River, MD

What it is, How it works

Seen as a potent method for uncovering the use of drugs and alcohol, hair testing provides a comprehensive record of substance use by trapping biomarkers in the strands as the hair grows. When sourced from near the scalp, it can offer up to a 3-month detection period for both alcohol and other substances. Collection is straightforward, tampering is relatively difficult, and it’s easy to transport.

A sample of 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 strands (similar to a #2 pencil), taken from the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, optimal for screening and verification. For EtG and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. Using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen is advised. If scalp hair cannot be collected, a similar amount of body hair can be used. When we refer to head hair, it's purely about scalp hair. Other hair types, like facial or axillary, fall under body hair.

Process Overview

The lab steps for processing a drug testing result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning incorporates the initial intake of a sample into a lab’s system, confirming the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing any missing data entry where the electronic chain of custody is inadequate.

Screening serves as a first-pass, efficient check for drug abuse. Although cost-effective, a positive result needs Confirmation for legal credibility. Samples that test positive during Screening require a subsequent confirmation.

Should a sample test positive in Screening, additional hair from the original specimen is used for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are drawn from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods such as urine or oral fluid, making this the toughest methodology for drug screening.

Confirmation of positive results utilizes GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positives are cleansed prior to confirmation as required. The full processing from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review in line with CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Prolonged detection period: Hair tests track drug usage for up to 90 days, whereas urine tests have a briefer detection timeframe.
• Hard to tamper with: Successfully cheating a hair drug test is difficult, enhancing result reliability.
• Offers historical insight: It illustrates a pattern of drug use over time, beyond just immediate use.

Limitations:

• Recent usage undetectable: Drugs take about 5-7 days to register in hair.
• Expense: Hair drug tests are costlier compared to other drug testing alternatives.
• Result variability: Elements like hair coloring and individual growth differences can impact detectable drug metabolite levels.

Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests,” the analysis actually evaluates the hair strand instead of the follicle beneath the scalp

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Middle River, MD
Hair follicle tests offer unmatched benefits over traditional urine tests, especially in detection accuracy and reliability. While urine tests capture drug use within a limited timeframe, hair tests provide a longer detection period, ensuring easier compliance with zero-tolerance policies.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window in Middle River, MD
The advantage of hair follicle testing lies in its extended detection window, capable of tracing drug usage for up to 90 days. This long span allows employers to gain a more comprehensive view of a potential hire or current employee's substance history, enabling better-informed decisions.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Middle River, MD
Hair follicle testing significantly decreases the chances of sample tampering, offering credible and authentic results. The robustness of the method ensures that drugs cannot easily be masked or altered, which makes it an ideal option for ensuring validity in testing outcomes.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Middle River, MD
Our expansive network of test centers ensures that you have quick and stress-free access to testing services. The immediate availability of these facilities simplifies the process, regardless of where you are located across the nation.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Middle River, MD
Ordering, undergoing, and receiving results from hair follicle tests is not only straightforward but also highly confidential. This process addresses any privacy concerns with ease, ensuring discretion from start to finish.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Middle River, MD
Our competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times offer significant value to businesses large and small. These advantages help companies manage costs while still ensuring prompt and trustworthy test results.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Middle River, MD
Hair follicle drug testing is known for its precision and efficiency in delivering results. With high accuracy, these tests quickly determine recent substance use, offering reliable data that meets the needs of employers and courts alike. The speed and reliability make hair tests an indispensable tool for those seeking definitive answers.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Middle River, MD
Implementing hair follicle testing helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies, minimizing the risk of legal issues. This method not only boosts workplace safety but also brings peace of mind in maintaining compliance with mandated standards.

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