Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective means for identifying substance use, offering a prolonged track of alcohol and drug consumption by locking biomarkers within the fibers of the expanding hair strand. When procured directly from the scalp region, hair can reveal consumption of alcohol and substances for as long as three months. Hair sampling is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to send for testing.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches long and consisting of around 200 hair strands (approximately equivalent to a #2 pencil) taken nearest the scalp provides about 100mg of hair, making it the optimal sample size for preliminary tests and verification. For EtG tests, additional tests, or those exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, the same quantity of body hair may serve as an alternative. In contexts where head hair is mentioned, it specifically refers to scalp hair; body hair encompasses all other hair categories (such as facial and axillary hair).
Process Overview
The core procedures in laboratory handling of a drug screening outcome encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning refers to the introductory handling of a sample within a laboratory’s framework, confirming the sample's seal and correct shipment, assigning it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling out any required data absent from an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening conducts a swift preliminary examination for substances of abuse. Though economical for eliminating drug usage in the majority of samples, a positive screening outcome necessitates confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples giving a preliminary positive result in Screening demand an additional verification test.
For samples returning a presumptive positive at the Screening phase, additional hair is gathered from the initial sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are isolated from hair at a much lower concentration compared to alternative methods (i.e., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of performing hair drug analysis.
Any positive outcome at the screening stage is confirmed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, presumptively positive samples undergo cleansing as required. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes scrutiny per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair specification and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Frequently termed as "hair follicle tests", these tests evaluate the hair strand, not the rooted hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Choctaw, OK
In comparison to urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. With a longer detection window, hair tests reveal substance use history more comprehensively. This method gains favor in organizations demanding zero-tolerance policies, providing more trustworthy results than conventional urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Choctaw, OK
Hair follicle testing provides an extended detection period of up to 90 days, offering employers a detailed view into an applicant or employee's recent substance history. This longer window distinguishes hair testing from other methods, supporting informed decisions by revealing long-term drug use trends.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Choctaw, OK
The reliability of hair follicle testing is underscored by its resistance to tampering. This method nearly eliminates the risk of sample adulteration, ensuring that the results are authentic and indisputable. Employers and authorities can trust the integrity of the test outcomes with confidence in their veracity.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Choctaw, OK
With our extensive network of testing centers nationwide, access to convenient drug testing is effortless. Whether local in Choctaw or beyond, our services ensure swift and hassle-free testing, meeting the demands of busy schedules and diverse geographic needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in Choctaw, OK
Our hair follicle testing process in Choctaw is straightforward and maintains confidentiality. From ordering to taking and receiving results, we prioritize user-friendly steps that safeguard privacy. Addressing apprehensions about simplicity and discretion, clients can rely on our streamlined procedure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Choctaw, OK
Offering competitive pricing and quick turnaround times, our hair follicle testing provides excellent value for businesses of any size. This combination of affordability and efficiency ensures that companies receive the best possible service without compromising on quality or speed.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Choctaw, OK
Emphasizing precision and speed, hair follicle drug testing in Choctaw guarantees results you can trust. The ability to detect substance use with high accuracy ensures that the process is both swift and reliable, giving organizations confidence in the outcomes. This method is ideal for those who prioritize prompt and precise testing solutions.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Choctaw, OK
For employers, hair follicle testing fosters compliance with workplace drug-free policies, mitigating legal risks and enhancing workplace safety. By adopting this method, organizations reinforce their commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant environment, providing peace of mind.
