Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
As a formidable method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair testing is increasingly being recognized for its effectiveness. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand, hair showcases an extensive historical record of alcohol and drug usage. With samples taken close to the scalp, hair proposes a detection span of up to roughly three months for alcohol and other substances. Collecting hair samples is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of about 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp, yields 100mg of hair, constituting the ideal quantity for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests beyond 10 panels, a specimen weighing 150mg is advised. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen is suggested. In instances where scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent volume of body hair can be used. References to head hair strictly mean scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other hair types (like facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result involves four crucial steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the preliminary processing of a sample within a laboratory’s framework. This step involves ensuring that the sample is appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial swift examination for substances of abuse. Even though Screening offers a cost-efficient approach to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive outcome requires further confirmation to be deemed valid in legal proceedings. Any samples showing presumptive positive results in Screening necessitate additional confirmation.
Should a sample show presumptive positivity in the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for the Extraction process. This phase involves extracting drugs from the hair at a considerably lower concentration compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), emphasizing the complexity involved in hair drug screening.
Positive screening outcomes are validated through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples presumed positive undergo necessary washing before confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed following both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and accreditation under ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Utica, MS
Hair follicle testing significantly outperforms traditional urine tests with its superior detection accuracy and reliability. Its capacity to detect substances over an extended time frame provides an advantage over urine tests, which may miss certain exposures. This makes hair testing a smart choice for those in Utica, MS seeking definitive drug use assessments.
Extended Detection Window in Utica, MS
One of the chief advantages of hair follicle testing is its extended detection timeline. In Utica, MS, this allows employers to gain a thorough understanding of an employee's substance history as tests can uncover drug use up to 90 days prior. This broader window of detection ensures a more comprehensive view into an individual's habits.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Utica, MS
Hair follicle tests offer a robust defense against sample tampering or adulteration, significantly reducing the risk of unreliable results. Residents of Utica, MS benefit from this testing's secure methodologies, ensuring that results remain accurate, trustworthy, and beyond dispute.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Utica, MS
Accredited Drug Testing extends its services nationwide, offering convenience with numerous testing centers, including in Utica, MS. This network ensures fast, hassle-free access to testing, making it easy for residents to obtain professional and prompt services without the stress of limited availability.
Simple, Confidential Process in Utica, MS
The hair follicle drug testing process is designed to be straightforward and private in Utica, MS. From ordering to taking the test and receiving the results, individuals can be assured of confidentiality and ease, ensuring their privacy concerns are managed with utmost professionalism.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Utica, MS
Residents of Utica, MS can benefit from competitive pricing on hair follicle drug tests, coupled with rapid result times. This blend of affordability and efficiency offers exceptional value, supporting businesses of all sizes with cost-effective yet reliable testing solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Utica, MS
Hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its speed and precision in detecting substance use. This method provides Utica, MS residents with a high accuracy level, ensuring quick and dependable results. Unlike traditional methods, hair testing's ability to reveal signs of drug use with precision makes it a preferred choice for those demanding reliable outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Utica, MS
Utilizing hair follicle testing helps employers in Utica, MS adhere to drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal repercussions and enhancing safety. This method grants employers peace of mind by ensuring that business environments prioritize health and safety standards.
