Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Utilizing hair samples has become recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol use. By capturing biomarkers within the hair's fibers, hair provides an extended historical record of alcohol and drug intake as it grows. Sampling hair near the scalp offers a detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair is straightforward to gather, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (comparable to a #2 pencil thickness) closest to the scalp yields about 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and validation. For tests involving EtG, add-ons, or exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is suggested. It is advisable to measure the sample weight using a jeweler’s scale. When scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount from the body can be taken. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, while body hair encompasses all other types, such as axillary and facial hair.
Process Overview
There are four primary steps within the lab process for analyzing drug test samples: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the first step of integrating a sample into the lab system. This step confirms the sample is correctly sealed and shipped, assigns a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN), and includes any additional data input that's absent from an electronic custody chain.
Screening involves an initial assessment for substances. Though it's a cost-efficient method to eliminate drug usage for most samples, a positive screen must be validated for legal proceedings. Positives during Screening need further confirmation through a secondary process.
If Screening indicates a provisional positive, more hair is retrieved from the original sample for Extraction. Drugs are isolated from hair at significantly lower concentrations than those in other methods, such as urine or saliva—making hair drug testing especially complex.
Positive screening outcomes undergo Confirmation via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples indicating presumptive positives receive a wash before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is subject to review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair program and complies with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the skin.
Why Hair Follicle Beats Urine Testing
Hair testing offers superior detection accuracy compared to traditional urine tests.
It provides a longer detection window, making it more reliable for employers in Etowah, NC.
Unlike urine tests, hair analysis is harder to adulterate, ensuring trustworthy results.
Employers benefit from the comprehensive insights hair testing provides over urine analysis.
Extended Drug Detection in Etowah, NC
Hair follicle testing shines with its 90-day drug use detection period.
This long timeframe offers employers a detailed view of substance habits.
In contrast, urine testing captures only short-term drug use.
The extensive detection window of hair tests is a valuable asset in pre-employment screenings.
Secure Testing Method in Etowah, NC
Hair follicle tests significantly decrease the chance of specimen tampering.
The integrity of the sample is maintained, ensuring reliable outcomes.
This method alleviates concerns of test manipulation common in urine testing.
Employers can trust hair testing for authentic and indisputable results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing
We provide hassle-free testing access across numerous centers, including Etowah, NC.
Our widespread locations make testing straightforward and stress-free.
Employers can effortlessly arrange tests for employees anywhere they are based.
Our nationwide reach ensures prompt service delivery regardless of location.
Easy, Confidential Testing Process
Our Etowah, NC facility offers a straightforward and private testing process.
The emphasis on confidentiality reassures participants with respect to privacy.
Affordable Testing Options in Etowah, NC
Our competitive pricing caters to businesses of any scale.
Quick turnaround values align with budget-conscious company strategies.
High-quality results delivered rapidly ensure exceptional value.
Opt for our services for economical yet effective drug testing solutions.
In Etowah, NC, the reliability and swiftness of hair follicle drug tests are unmatched.
Their precision ensures accurate detection of substances, offering peace of mind with every analysis.
These tests not only guarantee rapid results but also set the benchmark for accuracy in the industry.
The high accuracy in detecting drug use underscores its importance in professional settings.
For fast and dependable outcomes, hair follicle testing remains unmatched.
Ensuring Workplace Compliance
Hair follicle testing guarantees adherence to drug-free workplace policies.
It reduces legal liabilities and boosts safety at work.
Employers gain peace of mind knowing their staff adheres to substance rules.
Complying with rigorous testing standards solidifies corporate responsibility in Etowah, NC.
