Hair Follicle Drug Testing - Winston, NM

What it is, How it works

Seen as an influential method for identifying alcohol and drug involvement, hair analysis offers a historical glimpse by anchoring biomarkers within its developing strands. Hair positioned near the scalp can unveil an approximately 3-month substance usage history. Its straightforward collection process, relative resistance to tampering, and effortless shipping enhance its usability.

A 1.5-inch sample, about 200 strands (roughly equal to the diameter of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp, provides 100mg of hair, perfect for both screening and confirmation processes. For EtG add-ons or analyses exceeding 10 panels, gathering 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale for weight verification is suggested. If scalp hair is absent, equivalent body hair serves as an alternative. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair, while "body hair" encompasses other varieties (facial, axillary, etc.).

Process Overview

The primary steps in lab processing of drug test outcomes include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.

Accessioning incorporates integrating a sample into a lab system by confirming proper sealing and transportation, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry lacking from an electronic chain of custody system.

Screening involves a preliminary swift assessment for abused drugs. While it’s a budget-friendly solution for ruling out drug use in most specimens, a positive screening result requires confirmation to hold legal validity. Any screenings suggesting positivity need secondary confirmation.

Should a Screening suggest positivity, more hair is extracted from the original specimen, proceeding to Extraction. This stage involves isolating drugs from hair at notably lower concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug analyses the most intricate methodology.

Confirmations of positive screenings undertake processes including GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Samples indicating presumptive positivity undergo washing prior to confirmation if needed. Every lab operation from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair category and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.

Advantages of hair drug testing:

• Extended detection period: Able to trace drug usage up to 90 days, whereas urine analyses offer a brief detection span.
• Hard to manipulate: Hair analyses are considerably challenging to deceive, enhancing outcome precision.
• Shows usage trends: It reflects drug use patterns over time, rather than solely recent intakes.

Limitations:

• Recent use undetectable: Drugs become traceable in hair approximately 5-7 days post usage.
• Expenses: Generally, skin hair analyses tend to incur higher costs compared to alternate testing techniques.
• Result inconsistencies: Elements like natural hair color and variability in individual growth impact drug metabolite concentration.

Note: Despite the common term "hair follicle tests", the actual analysis targets the hair strand, excluding the follicle beneath the scalp.

Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing

In Winston, NM, hair follicle testing provides advantages over urine tests through its comprehensive detection capabilities. Hair tests can reveal substance use over a longer period, offering superior accuracy and reliability. While urine tests can only identify recent use, hair samples deliver a complete insight into an individual's drug history, making them a more robust option for thorough evaluations.

Extended Detection Window

Hair follicle testing in Winston, NM, provides an extended window for detecting drug use, spanning up to 90 days. This long detection period allows employers to gain a comprehensive understanding of an employee's substance use history, beyond the limited scope of urine tests. It captures a broader timeline, ensuring a thorough evaluation for workplace safety and compliance.

Tamper-Resistant Testing Method

The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Winston, NM, drastically reduces risks of sample adulteration. This testing method delivers results that are reliable and hard to dispute, assuring employers of the integrity and accuracy of the test outcomes. The secure collection process ensures the authenticity of each sample, providing peace of mind.

Convenient Nationwide Locations

Accredited Drug Testing offers convenience in Winston, NM, and nationwide with easily accessible testing centers. Our widespread network ensures that drug testing is straightforward and hassle-free, available wherever you are. With local locations, individuals and employers can quickly and efficiently access essential testing services without inconvenience.

Simple, Confidential Process

In Winston, NM, the process for hair follicle testing is simple and confidential, from ordering to receiving results. High discretion ensures privacy, addressing concerns about confidentiality. The straightforward nature of the procedure allows individuals and businesses to seamlessly integrate testing without unnecessary complications or intrusions.

Affordable, Fast Turnaround

In Winston, NM, Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times for hair follicle testing. Companies benefit from affordable solutions that deliver high value, allowing organizations of all sizes to maintain drug-free environments without financial strain. The swift results cater to immediate needs, ensuring continuity and safety.

Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results

In Winston, NM, hair follicle drug tests stand out for their speed and precision. The high accuracy in identifying drug use is unmatched, providing fast and dependable results. This method efficiently detects a wide range of substances, giving a clear picture of an individual's history. Employers trust these tests for their reliability and consistent performance in substance abuse screening.

Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers

Employers in Winston, NM, find reassurance in hair follicle testing as it supports compliance with strict drug-free policies. This method minimizes legal liabilities and enhances safety standards in the workplace, providing peace of mind. Its thoroughness and accuracy serve as a deterrent against substance abuse, contributing to a safer working environment.

Drug Testing Near Winston, NM

Sherman, NM

Fierro, NM

Cutter, NM

Arrey, NM

Engle, NM

Crocker, NM

Caballo, NM

Kingston, NM

Hillsboro, NM

Las Palomas, NM

Truth or Consequences, NM

Hot Springs Landing, NM

Elephant Butte, NM

Williamsburg, NM

Chloride, NM