Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair can capture a long-term record of alcohol and other drugs by embedding biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When collected near the scalp, hair offers a possible three-month detection period for alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, tampering is challenging, and it can be easily shipped.
A 1.5-inch segment consisting of roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, which is considered the optimal sample size for evaluation and verification. For EtG enhancements, as well as tests surpassing 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. We suggest measuring the specimen with a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair isn't obtainable, a comparable quantity of body hair can be utilized. By 'head hair', we mean only scalp hair, while 'body hair' pertains to any other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The drug test result processing in laboratories consists of four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where a sample is integrated into the lab’s workflow. This step involves confirming the sample's secure sealing and correct shipment, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing data entry if necessary, beyond what the electronic chain of custody system covers.
Screening performs a preliminary assessment for substance abuse. While Screening serves as a cost-efficient method to dismiss drug use in most samples, a positive result must undergo confirmation to be court-admissible. Samples that show a positive result in Screening need a secondary confirmation.
If Screening indicates a positive result, further hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug testing a complex process.
Positive results from the Screening process are confirmed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples that are tentatively positive receive a wash before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory progression from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being termed "hair follicle tests", the actual test assesses the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Hair follicle tests significantly outperform urine tests in Applewold, PA. The accuracy in detecting drugs is notably higher, capable of providing reliable insights into past substance use. Unlike urine tests, which can be circumvented, hair tests offer superior reliability, ensuring accurate assessments.
The hair follicle test offers a long detection window of up to 90 days, making it invaluable for a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s drug habits. Employers in Applewold, PA, benefit from knowing more about a person’s substance history over several months, aiding informed decision-making.
The hair follicle testing method is virtually tamper-proof, offering dependable results free from sample adulteration. In Applewold, PA, this enhances the integrity of drug testing, ensuring that the findings are both reliable and conclusive.
With testing centers nationwide, including in Applewold, PA, we offer convenient and accessible testing services for everyone. This ease of access ensures that you can quickly and efficiently undergo testing without significant disruptions to your routine.
Our process for testing in Applewold, PA, is designed to be simple and confidential, ensuring peace of mind. From ordering to receiving results, each step prioritizes user privacy and ease, making the entire experience smooth and secure.
In Applewold, PA, we offer competitive pricing for our hair follicle testing services, coupled with fast turnaround times. This not only delivers excellent value but also ensures quick access to results, supporting companies of all sizes with their testing needs.
In Applewold, PA, hair follicle drug tests are renowned for their speed and accuracy. These tests efficiently detect substance use, offering high-precision results that are difficult to rival. The ability to quickly process samples makes hair testing a preferred choice for those seeking reliable outcomes.
For businesses in Applewold, PA, employing hair follicle tests aligns perfectly with maintaining a drug-free workplace. These tests ensure compliance with substance-free policies, minimizing potential legal ramifications and promoting a safer working environment for all employees.
