Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair captures biomarkers in its growing fibers, offering a long-term record of alcohol and other drug usage. When samples are collected near the scalp, hair can indicate the presence of alcohol and drugs for up to a 3-month period. Collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easily transportable.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (about the diameter of a #2 pencil), is ideal for screening and confirmation, providing 100mg of hair. For EtG, additional tests or those exceeding 10 panels, a specimen size of 150mg is advised. Utilizing a jeweler's scale is recommended for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair is unavailable, a similar quantity of body hair can be obtained. When head hair is mentioned, it specifically refers to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in laboratory processing of drug test results include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning pertains to the initial sample processing within a laboratory's system. This step involves confirming the sample's seal and shipment integrity, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing supplementary data entry not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves an initial quick assessment for drugs of abuse. While it offers a cost-effective means to exclude drug use for most samples, a positive result needs confirmation for legal admissibility. Any sample with a presumptive positive result in Screening requires secondary confirmation.
If the Screening suggests a positive result, more hair is taken from the original sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at a lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), making hair drug screening the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening result is carried out via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS. Presumptive positive samples are cleaned before confirmation as necessary. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis targets the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Stands Out Over Urine Tests
Comprehensive Detection Windows in New Kingstown, PA
Hair follicle testing in New Kingstown offers a significantly extended detection period, up to 90 days, unlike most other methods. This expanded window offers employers a thorough picture of an applicant's or employee's past substance use. Widespread in its application, this method provides insights that help ensure a drug-free environment while making informed employment decisions.
Securing Sample Integrity with Tamper-Resistant Testing
New Kingstown's drug testing landscape benefits greatly from the tamper-resistant nature of hair follicle testing. Unlike other testing methods, it is incredibly challenging to alter or substitute a hair sample, granting businesses peace of mind. This method promotes unwavering trust in testing results, minimizing discrepancies and securing sample authenticity.
Nationwide Testing Accessibility in New Kingstown
With Accredited Drug Testing's easy availability, accessing hair follicle drug tests in New Kingstown is as straightforward as it is nationwide. Conveniently positioned locations mean employers and individuals can quickly and efficiently complete necessary tests without the burden of distant travel. This widespread availability promotes peace of mind and informed decisions.
A Straightforward and Confidential Testing Process
Our approach in New Kingstown ensures that every step, from booking the test to receiving results, remains simple and confidential. This minimizes anxiety for anyone undergoing testing, ensuring their privacy is prioritized. Our streamlined process guarantees that individuals and organizations can focus on their results, rather than logistical concerns.
Competitive Pricing with Quick Turnaround
Accredited Drug Testing in New Kingstown offers competitive pricing without sacrificing quality or speed. Our quick turnaround times mean that businesses of all sizes receive efficient services without stretching their budgets. Companies benefit from both cost-effectiveness and timely results, making informed decisions a straightforward process.
Fast and Precise Results in New Kingstown, PA
Hair follicle tests offer remarkable precision, surpassing many traditional methods. They quickly detect various substances, providing rapid insight into an individual's drug history. This blend of speed and accuracy ensures that organizations in New Kingstown receive the reliable and consistent results they need to make informed decisions, optimizing workplace safety and compliance.
Ensuring Compliance With Hair Follicle Testing
In New Kingstown, employing hair follicle tests supports workplace compliance with drug-free policies. This method reduces the likelihood of legal challenges and contributes to fostering a safer working environment. As a dependable method for substance detection, hair testing is essential for employers committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace.
