Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol usage. It offers a comprehensive history of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the hair strand's structure as it grows. When taken near the scalp, hair can deliver a detection timeframe of about three months for both alcohol and various drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient for shipping.
Gathering a 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands close to the scalp yields 100mg, ideal for initial screening and validation. For EtG, extra tests, or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. It's best to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not an option, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" pertains specifically to scalp hair. "Body hair" includes all other hair forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test incorporates four main phases: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample enters a lab's system. This step includes confirming the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and executing any data entry not already covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drug abuse. Although Screening is economical for excluding drug usage in most cases, a positive result requires further verification for legal acceptance. Samples with a presumptive positive from Screening need a follow-up confirmation.
For samples identified as presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepped for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are removed from hair at lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing a challenging technique.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is achieved through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation if needed. The full laboratory protocol from Accessioning to Confirmation is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests", the test focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Annapolis, MO
Comparing hair follicle testing against traditional urine tests, hair testing emerges superior due to its expansive detection capability, capturing substance usage over a prolonged span. This method's accuracy and resilience to evasion bolster its reliability, making it the preferred option in various settings requiring stringent substance oversight.
Extended Detection Window in Annapolis, MO
With hair follicle testing, substances can be detected over a broad 90-day period. This extensive window provides employers a comprehensive insight into an individual’s drug history, offering a detailed view beyond the scope of standard testing methods. This prolonged detection aids in making informed judgments regarding hiring and employee assessments.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Annapolis, MO
The integrity of hair follicle testing is upheld by its robust resistance to tampering. This method greatly diminishes the chances of adulteration, delivering accurate results. Thus, employers and testing professionals gain confidence in the test outcomes, attesting to their reliability and credibility in varied applications.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Annapolis, MO
Our vast network of testing centers ensures seamless access to hair follicle testing services. With local centers in Annapolis, MO, and throughout the nation, clients experience prompt, convenient testing processes, reducing the stress and complexity typically associated with drug testing logistics.
Simple, Confidential Process in Annapolis, MO
Hair follicle testing in Annapolis, MO features a straightforward and confidential procedure, prioritizing user privacy. From ordering tests to obtaining results, clients appreciate the streamlined processes, ensuring sensitivity to individual concerns while maintaining the ease and security of test administrations.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Annapolis, MO
Our competitive pricing along with expedited turnaround time offers outstanding value for businesses of all sizes in Annapolis, MO. This budget-friendly approach combined with rapid result delivery ensures companies receive effective testing solutions without financial burden, enhancing decision-making efficiencies.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Annapolis, MO
Hair follicle drug tests in Annapolis, MO provide unparalleled speed and precision in detecting substances, ensuring employers and individuals receive trustworthy results. The high accuracy achieved through this method makes it a preferred choice for uncovering substance use, offering both peace of mind and reliability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Annapolis, MO
Employing hair follicle testing helps firms adhere to stringent drug-free workplace policies. It minimizes legal challenges and augments organizational safety. This testing approach grants employers the assurance of maintaining compliant practices, enhancing employee trust and overall workplace security.
