Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Shepperd, MD

What it is, How it works

Hair analysis has emerged as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures indicators of drugs and alcohol within its strands, offering a prolonged record of substance use. When clipped near the scalp, it provides a detection range of up to three months for drugs and alcohol. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and easy to transport.

A segment of 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 strands (similar in thickness to a #2 pencil) from the scalp equates to 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation processes. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or exceeding 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is suggested. It's advisable to weigh the hair sample using a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount from body hair can be gathered. Note that head hair strictly refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (facial, underarm, etc.).

Process Overview

The lab processing in a drug test involves four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning is the first stage where a sample is incorporated into the laboratory’s system. Here, proper sealing and shipping of the sample is verified, a random Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) is assigned, and any supplementary data entry not captured by an electronic custody chain system is completed.

Screening involves a preliminary rapid test for drugs. Although cost-effective for eliminating drug use in most samples, any positive findings during Screening must be validated for court acceptance. Samples that test presumptively positive require secondary Confirmation.

For presumptively positive samples in Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction phase. In this phase, drugs are extracted from hair at a concentration lower than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing one of the most complex methodologies.

Confirmation of a positive screening is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any samples that are presumptively positive are cleansed before confirmation if required. The process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Hair drug tests can reveal drug use for up to 90 days, offering longer detection compared to shorter spans provided by urine tests.
• Hard to manipulate: Hair drug tests are difficult to cheat, ensuring accuracy of results.
• Reveals usage patterns: Offers insights into drug use trends over time, beyond just recent use.

Limitations:

• Inability to detect recent consumption: It takes about 5-7 days before drugs become detectable in hair.
• Higher expense: Hair drug tests are typically costlier than other test forms.
• Result variances: Factors such as hair color and individual growth rates can influence drug metabolite concentrations in hair.

Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair shaft, not the follicle under the skin.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Shepperd, MD comes down to superior detection capabilities.

• Hair testing provides a much longer detection window, offering a broader view of substance use.
• Its accuracy surpasses that of traditional urine tests, reducing false positives and negatives.

Extended Detection Window

Extended Detection Window offered by hair follicle testing in Shepperd, MD allows up to 90 days of drug use tracking.

• This gives a comprehensive overview of an individual's substance history.
• Employers can rely on this long detection period to thoroughly screen applicants and employees.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method available in Shepperd, MD provides assurance with minimal risk of sample adulteration.

• Hair follicle tests are conducted in an observed manner, reducing the chances of tampering.
• The results are reliable, offering employers confidence in the integrity of the testing process.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations in Shepperd, MD make accessing testing services easy across the country.

• Our widespread network ensures quick and hassle-free testing.
• This convenience supports businesses and individuals alike, offering local access for all testing needs.

Simple, Confidential Process

Simple, Confidential Process in Shepperd, MD involves easy ordering, testing, and secure results handling.

• Privacy is a top priority, ensuring confidentiality at every step.
• The straightforward process is designed to be user-friendly, addressing any concerns about complexity or security.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Shepperd, MD offer great value for businesses of all sizes.

• Our competitive pricing structures make premium testing accessible.
• Quick result delivery enhances decision-making, providing reassurance and efficiency.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Shepperd, MD ensure precision in detecting substance use.

• The quick process delivers accurate results, offering peace of mind and efficient turnaround times.
• This high level of accuracy is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the test results.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Shepperd, MD is achieved with hair follicle testing.

• This method ensures alignment with workplace drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks.
• By maintaining a safe work environment, employers enhance productivity and meet regulatory standards.

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