Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is increasingly regarded as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. By capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair strand, a long-term history of alcohol and other substances is maintained in hair samples. When collected near the scalp, hair can deliver a detection window of up to roughly 3 months for alcohol and various drugs. It is easy to gather, fairly resistant to tampering, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable in size to a #2 pencil) near the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal sample for testing and validation. For EtG enhancements, additional tests, and panels exceeding 10, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is recommended to measure the specimen using a jeweler’s scale. Should scalp hair be unavailable, a comparable amount of body hair may be acquired. When discussing head hair, we exclusively mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four fundamental stages in the laboratory processing of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial processing phase of a sample into a laboratory system, ensuring the sample was properly sealed and dispatched, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handling any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary quick assessment for substances subject to abuse. While Screening is cost-effective and suitable for eliminating drug consumption in most samples, any positive screen must be validated for it to be court-admissible. Samples with a presumptive positive result in Screening necessitate a secondary confirmation.
If a presumptive positive is identified during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. This phase involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), contributing to the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is performed utilizing GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS methods. All samples that test presumptive positive are washed as required before confirmation. The comprehensive laboratory process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is reviewed under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 protocols.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often called "hair follicle tests", the test examines the hair strand itself rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in McKenzie Bridge, OR
In contrast to the more conventional urine testing method, hair follicle tests extend a broader detection window and deliver superior reliability and accuracy. Hair testing offers practitioners greater reassurance due to its dependability in recognizing long-term substance use, making it a preferred choice for thorough substance screening.
Extended Detection Window in McKenzie Bridge, OR
The capacity of hair follicle testing to identify drug traces over a 90-day timeframe provides a detailed perspective of an individual's substance history. This prolonged detection window aids employers in making informed decisions regarding applicants or employees, contributing significantly to informed hiring and managerial decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in McKenzie Bridge, OR
Renowned for its robust resistance to manipulation, hair follicle testing minimizes the chance of sample tampering and ensures the authenticity of results. This method serves as an exceptional safeguard against adulteration, thereby cementing its reliability for discerning institutions seeking credible outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in McKenzie Bridge, OR
Accredited Drug Testing simplifies access with numerous testing centers nationwide. This expansive network facilitates quick and uncomplicated testing services, providing convenience for individuals and businesses in McKenzie Bridge, emphasizing our commitment to seamless service delivery across varied locales.
Simple, Confidential Process in McKenzie Bridge, OR
We deliver a straightforward and private pathway for arranging, undergoing, and receiving test outcomes. The process prioritizes confidentiality while being user-friendly, addressing privacy concerns effectively and promoting stress-free navigation through each testing phase.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in McKenzie Bridge, OR
Our competitive pricing models, paired with swift result delivery, offer substantial value to enterprises of all sizes. This strategic pricing ensures cost-effective solutions for comprehensive drug testing needs, enhancing financial efficiency alongside vital procedural assurance.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in McKenzie Bridge, OR
Hair follicle drug tests guarantee not only rapid delivery of results but also a high degree of precision. The test's sophisticated nature enables accurate detection of substance use, fostering trust in the outcomes presented. Employed extensively by organizations, this method upholds high standards in ensuring true and timely identification of substance exposure.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in McKenzie Bridge, OR
Incorporating hair follicle testing into workplace policies supports adherence to drug-free workplace initiatives, amplifying legal safeguards and enhancing overall safety. This approach confers peace of mind by fortifying compliance and establishing a secure environment for employers and employees alike.
