Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a long-term profile of alcohol and drugs by embedding biomarkers into the strands of developing hair. When gathered near the scalp, hair can offer a detection timeline of up to nearly 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is easy to gather, fairly resistant to tampering, and convenient for shipping.
A 1.5-inch segment, approximately 200 strands (comparable to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or panels exceeding 10, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for specimen weighing. If scalp hair is not available, a similar quantity of body hair is suitable. When discussing head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair refers to all other hair types (such as facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in lab processing for a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the initial handling of a specimen within a lab’s system. This step involves ensuring the specimen was correctly sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any missing data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an expedient preliminary check for drug misuse. Although Screening is an economical approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result demands verification for legal admissibility. Samples showing presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample is likely positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is collected from the original sample and readied for Extraction. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at a concentration significantly lower than that in other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which explains why hair drug analysis is among the most intricate procedures.
Validation of any positive Screening result employs GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicated as presumptively positive undergo washing before Confirmation, as required. The comprehensive lab procedure from Accessioning to Confirmation is overseen under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation per ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently termed "hair follicle tests", the test itself examines the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in New Ulm, MN
When compared to the traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing in New Ulm, MN, demonstrates superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests can unveil substance use over an extended period, providing a more comprehensive look at drug history. This unmatched detection period extends significantly beyond that of urine tests, making hair testing a standout choice for thorough screenings.
Extended Detection Window in New Ulm, MN
Hair follicle testing offers a remarkable advantage with its extended detection timeframe of up to 90 days, significantly exceeding other methods such as urine testing. In New Ulm, MN, this extended window enables employers to gain a deeper insight into the substance habits of applicants or employees, ensuring more informed, responsible hiring and retention decisions that prioritize safety and performance.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in New Ulm, MN
One of the critical benefits of hair follicle testing is its robust resistance to tampering. In New Ulm, MN, this method curtails the likelihood of sample adulteration, thereby delivering reliable and indisputable results. This resistance to manipulation ensures that the test's integrity remains intact, making it a dependable option for institutions that require accurate drug testing without the concern of falsified outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in New Ulm, MN
Accredited Drug Testing offers convenient access through its nationwide network of testing centers, including local locations in New Ulm, MN. This extensive reach ensures that individuals and businesses receive quick, easy, and stress-free testing services. The availability of numerous testing sites simplifies the process, making it more accessible for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in New Ulm, MN
The hair follicle testing process is straightforward and confidential, designed with user privacy and ease in mind. For residents in New Ulm, MN, ordering the test, participating in it, and receiving the results is seamless and discreet, addressing any privacy concerns. This simplicity ensures a hassle-free experience for all users, maintaining confidentiality and respect throughout the procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in New Ulm, MN
Accredited Drug Testing provides competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times, making hair follicle testing an appealing choice for organizations of various sizes in New Ulm, MN. The combination of affordability and speed means businesses receive excellent value, obtaining necessary test results quickly, allowing them to make timely and informed decisions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in New Ulm, MN
Hair follicle drug tests offer precise and rapid results, ensuring high accuracy for substance detection. In New Ulm, MN, these tests are valued for their speed in delivering accurate readings, enabling organizations to make informed decisions without delay. This efficiency complements the meticulousness that characterizes hair testing, establishing trust in its outcomes for users and professionals alike.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in New Ulm, MN
Employers in New Ulm, MN, benefit significantly from hair follicle testing, as it ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies. By incorporating this method into their protocols, companies can reduce legal risks while enhancing workplace safety. The peace of mind that stems from knowing one's workplace complies with necessary regulations is invaluable, helping to maintain a safe and productive environment for all employees.
