Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Analyzing hair has become recognized as a robust technique for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged record of alcohol and other substances by locking in biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When trimmed near the scalp, hair can reveal usage over an up-to-approximately 3-month duration for various drugs and alcohol. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A 1.5-inch length comprising roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp yields 100mg, ideal for both screening and verification. For EtG, supplementary checks, and/or assessments beyond 10 panels, a 150mg specimen is advisable. It’s suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn’t available, a similar quantity of body hair can be gathered. When discussing head hair, it pertains solely to scalp hair. Body hair considers all other varieties (such as facial or axillary hair).
A Brief Overview of the Process
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample undergoes preliminary handling into the lab’s system. This involves ensuring the sample's correct sealing and shipment, allocating a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data input not covered by an electronic chain of custody mechanism.
Screening consists of a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-efficient measure to exclude drug use for most samples, any positive results require confirmation for court validity. Samples that yield a presumptive positive in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive result during Screening, additional hair is sourced from the original sample and prepped for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are withdrawn from hair, albeit at reduced concentrations compared to other methods (such as urine or oral fluid), thus making hair drug testing the most complex method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive screen results takes place via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation if necessary. The complete lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is assessed under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair categorization and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Benefits of Hair Drug Testing:
Drawbacks:
Note: Although often labeled as “hair follicle tests,†the assessment examines the strands themselves, not the follicle underneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Old Fort, NC
Hair follicle testing offers a distinct edge over traditional urine tests. It demonstrates superior detection capabilities and reliability. Thanks to its extended detection window and tamper-proof process, hair testing is the preferred choice for comprehensive drug use evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Old Fort, NC
Employers in Old Fort, NC choose hair follicle tests for their ability to detect drug use over an extensive period, up to 90 days. This extended window offers a detailed insight into an individual's substance history, enhancing decision-making in recruitment and monitoring.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Old Fort, NC
The reliability of hair follicle testing is evident in its resistance to tampering. Providing results that can be trusted without question, this testing method significantly reduces the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring authenticity and accuracy consistently.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Old Fort, NC
Accredited Drug Testing provides convenient access to its services with nationwide centers. In Old Fort, NC, our locations offer quick and seamless testing experiences, making it easy for individuals and businesses to meet their needs effortlessly.
Simple, Confidential Process in Old Fort, NC
Our testing process in Old Fort, NC has been designed to be simple and confidential. Ordering, taking the test, and receiving results are straightforward, addressing privacy concerns while ensuring ease and comfort for all involved.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Old Fort, NC
Competitive pricing and swift result delivery define our services in Old Fort, NC. We cater to businesses of all sizes by offering great value without compromising on the quality and speed of our drug testing services.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Old Fort, NC
Hair follicle testing in Old Fort, NC guarantees precise and swift results. The accuracy of these tests in spotting drug use is unmatched. Participants benefit from a dependable assessment that is quick yet meticulous, ensuring no substance goes undetected.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Old Fort, NC
Utilizing hair follicle tests helps employers adhere to drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces the risk of legal issues and fosters a safer working environment. By ensuring compliance, organizations can achieve greater peace of mind.
