Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has gained recognition as a robust means for identifying alcohol and drug consumption. Hair captures a historical record of alcohol and drug exposure by embedding biomarkers within its growing strands. A sample obtained near the scalp offers a detection timeframe of about three months for substance use. Collecting hair is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and conveniently shipped.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising about 200 hair strands (equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, ideal for both screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, or those beyond 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It is beneficial to use a jeweler’s scale for specimen measurement. If scalp hair is absent, an equivalent quantity of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
There are four crucial stages in the lab processing of a drug test conclusion: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning embodies the initial handling of a sample within a lab’s system. This process verifies proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any remaining data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an initial brief assessment for drugs of abuse. Though Screening efficiently eliminates drug use in the bulk of samples, a positive screen mandates confirmation for court admissibility. Any samples showing presumptive positivity in Screening need further confirmation.
Should a sample indicate presumptive positivity during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample for further processing in Extraction. Here, drugs are retrieved from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other modalities (ex. urine or oral fluid), establishing hair drug screening as the most intricate method to execute.
GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques confirm any positive results from screening. Any samples with presumptive positivity undergo washing prior to confirmation if necessary. The entire lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized conforming to both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standards and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", this test evaluates the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp.
When comparing hair follicle testing with standard urine tests in Bayside Gardens, OR, several clear advantages emerge. Hair tests provide superior accuracy and reliability, capturing a longer history of drug use. Unlike urine tests, which are prone to tampering and offer short-term detection, hair analyses reveal substance use patterns over an extended period. This makes them indispensable for employers requiring comprehensive screening solutions.
One of the most significant advantages of hair follicle testing in Bayside Gardens, OR, is its extended detection window. Unlike traditional methods, hair tests can uncover drug usage spanning up to 90 days. This longer timeframe presents employers with a clearer substance history of applicants or employees. Such comprehensive insights assist in making informed decisions regarding hiring and workplace safety measures, promoting a drug-free environment.
The tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing in Bayside Gardens, OR, provides unmatched reliability. Compared to other methods, hair tests significantly mitigate the risk of sample adulteration. The collection process of hair samples is observed and secure, making it nearly impossible for individuals to manipulate results. This assurance of genuine outcomes is vital for businesses and organizations focused on maintaining integrity and safety.
Our testing centers in Bayside Gardens, OR, offer unparalleled convenience with locations operating nationwide. This extensive network facilitates quick and hassle-free access to testing services for everyone. Individuals and businesses benefit from the easy availability and accessibility of our centers, ensuring that testing requirements are met promptly and efficiently. Whether local or national, our presence ensures comprehensive coverage.
In Bayside Gardens, OR, we prioritize a straightforward and confidential testing process. Ordering, collecting samples, and receiving results are all streamlined for ease of use. Addressing privacy concerns is paramount, ensuring clients have peace of mind during their experience. Our user-friendly procedures and discreet operations ensure satisfaction while maintaining the highest standards of confidentiality and professionalism.
Our offerings in Bayside Gardens, OR, boast competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. We provide exceptional value without compromising on quality, catering to companies of various sizes. Affordable pricing structures combined with expeditious reporting empower businesses to make informed decisions swiftly, instilling confidence and enabling efficient operational management.
In Bayside Gardens, OR, hair follicle drug testing is renowned for its precision and swiftness. This method delivers rapid and reliable results with unparalleled accuracy. Compared to other testing techniques, hair tests ensure thorough detection of substances, offering peace of mind for both employers and individuals seeking trustworthy assessments. The technology utilized in these tests guarantees quick turnaround and dependable analysis.
For employers in Bayside Gardens, OR, hair follicle tests offer compliance and peace of mind. Utilizing hair testing ensures adherence to workplace drug-free policies and minimizes legal risks. By promoting a safe and compliant environment, companies safeguard their operations and workforce. Legal actions are reduced, and employee trust is strengthened, driving an overall healthier and more productive atmosphere.