Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is now recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair shaft as it grows. When cut near the scalp, hair can reveal alcohol and drug presence for up to a 90-day period. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to send for testing.
A 1.5-inch segment containing roughly 200 hairs (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, providing 100mg of hair, serves as the optimal sample for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, extensions, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is advisable. It is suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair is not accessible, a comparable amount of body hair might be used. References to head hair pertain only to scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types like facial or axillary hair.
Procedure Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test encompasses four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary stage where a sample is introduced into the lab system. This step involves confirming that the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial assessment to detect drug abuse. While cost-efficient, any positive results from Screening must be substantiated for legal admissibility. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
If a presumptive positive arises during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are isolated from the hair at a significantly lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug testing one of the most complex methodologies.
Positive screening outcomes are confirmed through techniques such as GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, presumptive positive samples undergo washing as necessary. The complete laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Benefits of hair drug analysis:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests," the analysis involves the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Testing Prevails Over Urine Testing in Menahga, MN
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy and dependability. While urine tests track recent use, hair tests provide a longer detection period, capturing substance intake up to 90 days prior. This capability is invaluable for employers and institutions aiming for a comprehensive substance use evaluation.
Extended Detection Window in Menahga, MN
One of the most important features of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window, offering insights into drug use over a 90-day period. For employers, this prolonged assessment enables an all-encompassing overview of an applicant or employee's past substance consumption, granting them informed decisions based on extensive evidence.
Secure Testing Methods in Menahga, MN
Hair follicle tests drastically minimize risks related to sample tampering, thus delivering trustworthy and unquestionable results. Owing to its unique administering method, this testing technique is often considered impervious to circumvention attempts, allowing employers to rely on genuinely accurate findings.
Accessible Testing Locations in Menahga, MN
With a network of testing centers across the nation, including Menahga, MN, our services are conveniently reachable for quick and stress-free testing processes. Our exhaustive reach guarantees that finding a nearby testing facility is simple and efficient for every client.
Effortless and Confidential Testing in Menahga, MN
We prioritize a simple and discreet method for ordering, undertaking, and obtaining test results. Our commitment to privacy and ease guarantees our clients feel secure and at ease, knowing their private information is well protected throughout the process.
Competitive Pricing and Quick Results in Menahga, MN
Offering economical pricing and rapid turnaround times, our service presents excellent value, appealing to businesses of varying sizes. With a focus on affordability and promptness, we aim to deliver peace of mind and exceptional service efficiency for our clients.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Testing in Menahga, MN
Hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their precision and speed in providing results. With a high accuracy rate, these tests detect even minimal substance use, ensuring reliable evaluations for individuals and employers in Menahga. The efficiency of hair testing makes it a preferred choice for those seeking trusted outcomes swiftly.
Compliance and Assurance for Employers in Menahga, MN
By using hair follicle drug testing, employers can ensure adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This not only reduces potential legal risks but also boosts overall workplace safety and security. In turn, this creates a more secure and supportive environment for all employees.