Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as an effective means to identify drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the maturing strand. When sourced near the scalp, hair offers a detection timeframe of up to three months for both alcohol and drugs. The sample is easy to collect, difficult to tamper with, and straightforward to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (similar to the size of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the optimal amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advised. Use a jeweler’s scale to measure the sample's weight. If scalp hair is unavailable, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair includes other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary phases in the laboratory handling of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning encompasses the preliminary handling of a sample into a lab's system, which involves confirming that the sample was sealed and dispatched correctly, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any supplementary data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening offers an initial rapid evaluation for drug abuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective strategy to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive screen must be verified for it to be permissible in legal contexts. Any samples that are initially positive in Screening necessitate a follow-up confirmation.
If a sample tests preliminarily positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the primary sample and prepared for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations than other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing is considered the most challenging methodology to execute.
Confirmation of any positive results from Screening is achieved using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. All initially positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as necessary. The full laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and is accredited to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently called "hair follicle tests," the analysis targets the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Paulding, MS
Hair follicle testing offers superior benefits over traditional urine tests, primarily due to its ability to detect substance use over a more prolonged period. Its comprehensive detection accuracy and reliability provide more insightful results, making it the preferred choice for employers with strict drug policies.
Extended Detection Window in Paulding, MS
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection window of up to 90 days. This provides employers a long-term view of an applicant or employee's substance history, offering crucial insights that aid in making informed hiring or regulatory decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Paulding, MS
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its tamper-resistant nature, significantly reducing the chances of sample adulteration. This method ensures the integrity of the results, providing reliable and unquestionable test outcomes that employers and individuals can trust.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Paulding, MS
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers, including local facilities in Paulding, MS, ensures that individuals and employers have easy access to testing services. This convenience allows for a quick, effortless process when scheduling and conducting tests.
Simple, Confidential Process in Paulding, MS
The process for hair follicle testing is designed to be straightforward and confidential. With privacy as a top priority, individuals can order, take, and retrieve results with ease, ensuring their personal information remains secure throughout the entire testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Paulding, MS
We offer competitive pricing structures along with fast turnaround times for our hair follicle testing services. This provides excellent value for companies of all sizes, ensuring that they receive rapid results without compromising on quality or accuracy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Paulding, MS
Hair follicle drug testing stands out for its precision and quick results. These tests are known for their high accuracy levels in detecting substance use, making them a dependable choice for both employers and individuals. The testing process is swift, providing definitive results efficiently and effectively.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Paulding, MS
Utilizing hair follicle testing aids employers in maintaining compliance with drug-free workplace policies. This not only reduces legal risks but also enhances workplace safety, offering peace of mind knowing that they are upholding a secure and drug-free environment.
