Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing has emerged as a significant method for identifying substance use. By encasing biomarkers within the hair fiber as it grows, hair offers a comprehensive record of alcohol and drug use. When clipped near the scalp, it possesses the capability to demonstrate drug and alcohol use over a period extending up to three months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A section of hair measuring 1.5 inches, comprising approximately 200 strands (about the equivalent thickness of a #2 pencil), near the scalp will provide a 100mg sample, which is optimal for both screening and verification. For EtG enhancements or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advocated. To ensure precision, it's suggested to measure the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically pertains to scalp hair, whereas body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The procedure for processing a drug test result in the laboratory encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial integration of a sample into a lab’s system, ensuring the sample's seal and proper shipping, assigning a Laboratory Accessioning Number (LAN) randomly, and completing any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While cost-effective for ruling out drug use in most samples, a positive outcome in Screening requires confirmation to be legally admissible. Samples that show presumptive positives in Screening necessitate further validation.
For samples that are preliminary positives during the Screening phase, additional hair from the initial sample is utilized for Extraction. In this phase, drug compounds are extracted at substantially lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening the most complex to execute.
Verification of any positive screening finding is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methodologies. Presumptive positive samples are cleansed prior to confirmation if needed. The entirety of the lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite often being called "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand itself, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Whitakers, NC
Hair follicle testing in Whitakers offers unparalleled advantages over traditional urine tests. With superior detection accuracy and reliability, hair testing uncovers a prolonged history of drug use. Urine tests often fall short due to their limited detection window, whereas hair tests provide a comprehensive overview, making them invaluable for employers.
Extended Detection Window in Whitakers, NC
Hair follicle drug testing excels in providing an extensive detection window, up to 90 days. In Whitakers, NC, this advantage affords employers a complete view of an individual’s substance use history. Understanding past drug use is pivotal in evaluating applicant suitability, ensuring workplace safety and compliance with drug-free policies.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Whitakers, NC
Hair follicle testing in Whitakers is recognized for its tamper-resistant nature, significantly reducing the chances of sample adulteration. This robust method guarantees trustworthy and indisputable results, offering organizations assurance in their drug testing processes. The reliability of hair testing makes it a top choice for maintaining integrity and accountability.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Whitakers, NC
Accessibility is key, and Accredited Drug Testing ensures this with its extensive network of testing centers nationwide. In Whitakers, NC, local sites provide quick, seamless access to essential drug testing services. This vast reach means that anyone can find a convenient location, simplifying the testing process.
Simple, Confidential Process in Whitakers, NC
Taking a hair follicle test in Whitakers is straightforward and private. From ordering to obtaining results, the process prioritizes confidentiality, addressing any privacy concerns users might have. This simplified approach ensures that individuals and employers can easily and securely manage their testing needs while respecting personal data privacy.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Whitakers, NC
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitively priced services in Whitakers, NC, paired with swift turnaround times. Companies of any size find this combination advantageous, ensuring superior value and reassurance. Quick and cost-effective testing services cater to diverse needs, providing efficiency without compromising quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Whitakers, NC
The precision and quickness of hair follicle drug tests in Whitakers, NC, are unparalleled. These tests are highly accurate in discovering substance use, offering rapid results. Their reliability makes hair testing a favored choice for both employers and individuals seeking certainty in substance detection, ensuring the well-being of workplaces and communities at large.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Whitakers, NC
Employers in Whitakers can achieve compliance with workplace drug policies through hair follicle testing. Minimizing legal challenges and fostering a secure work environment, hair tests not only meet but exceed regulatory standards. They offer peace of mind to employers, ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace initiatives and enhancing overall safety.
