Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Seen as a potent resource for identifying drug and alcohol consumption, hair testing captures a long-term picture by embedding biomarkers in the strands' fibers. If taken near the scalp, hair samples afford an estimated 3-month detection period for substances. The collection process is straightforward, making it somewhat challenging to falsify and easy to transport.
A 1.5-inch hair sample, approximately 200 strands or pencil-sized, equates to 100mg—optimal for screening and verification. For EtG, additional testing, or panels exceeding ten, a 150mg sample is advised. It's best to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing. In the absence of scalp hair, a proportionate segment of body hair can be retrieved. "Head hair" specifically denotes scalp hair, whereas "body hair" includes all other types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory drug test result process encompasses four stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning incorporates preliminary sample processing into the lab's framework. This step confirms proper sealing and shipment of the sample, generates a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and handles any supplementary data entry unattainable through electronic chain of custody.
Screening initiates a brisk assessment for drug presence. While cost-efficient for negating drug intake in most instances, court-admissible results necessitate positive screen confirmation. Presumptive positive samples from this stage require additional confirmation.
For samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening, extra hair from the original specimen undergoes preparation for Extraction. Drugs are then segregated from hair at a lesser concentration relative to alternatives (e.g., urine, oral fluids), underlining hair testing's complexity.
Confirmation of any positive screenings occurs through methods like GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presupposed positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The comprehensive lab procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, adheres to the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the process evaluates the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hummels Wharf, PA
Hair follicle tests offer substantial advantages over traditional urine tests, especially in accuracy and reliability. These tests boast an extended detection timeline and decreased likelihood of deception. While urine tests are common, their shorter detection window limits their efficacy in identifying prolonged substance use. Hair testing emerges as a superior solution in many cases.
Advantages Over Urine Testing
Extended Detection Window in Hummels Wharf, PA
Hair follicle testing provides the capability to trace drug consumption over extensive durations, often up to 90 days. For employers, this extended window furnishes a clear perspective on an individual's substance use habits, aiding in thorough evaluations of potential or current employees' histories.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hummels Wharf, PA
One of the standout advantages of hair follicle tests is their tamper-resistant nature, reducing risks of sample manipulation and ensuring unquestioned reliability. This aspect proves crucial in contexts where test integrity significantly impacts the decisions made based on the results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hummels Wharf, PA
Accredited Drug Testing ensures accessibility and convenience with its numerous testing centers. Residents of Hummels Wharf and surrounding areas can benefit from the streamlined processes, designed to make testing quick and hassle-free.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hummels Wharf, PA
The testing process is straightforward and respects confidentiality, from ordering to result retrieval. Participants can be assured of their privacy and the ease-of-use that the hair testing procedure offers.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hummels Wharf, PA
Accredited Drug Testing offers competitive pricing models and quick result turnarounds, providing value for businesses of all sizes. Fast, efficient processing contributes to maintaining optimal business operation without unnecessary delays.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hummels Wharf, PA
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for delivering swift, precise, and trustworthy outcomes. Speed and high accuracy levels make this an excellent testing option in detecting substance use. The meticulous processes involved ensure that every test offers highly reliable and precise results, making them a favored choice across various testing requirements.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hummels Wharf, PA
For employers, adopting hair follicle testing enforces a drug-free workplace policy and ensures compliance with legal standards. This vigilant approach minimizes potential legal challenges and enhances overall workplace safety.
