Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a prolonged history of alcohol and drugs by encasing biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. By sourcing hair samples close to the scalp, it offers a detection timeframe of up to around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. Collecting hair is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and straightforward to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches from roughly 200 hair strands (the width of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is optimal for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or tests above 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It's suggested to measure the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair isn't available, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. References to head hair pertain only to scalp hair while body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first step where a sample is brought into the laboratory’s system. This stage checks that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns it a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any outstanding data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid check for substance misuse. Although Screening is a cost-effective measure to exclude drug use in most samples, a positive result needs to be corroborated to be permissible in court. Any samples that show presumptive positive results in Screening need further confirmation.
If a sample shows a presumptive positive in the Screening phase, more hair is drawn from the initial sample to prepare for Extraction. At this juncture, drugs are extracted from hair at a concentration far lower than in other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening highly challenging.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples are cleansed as needed before confirmation. The entire lab process, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Comparing Hair and Urine Testing: Hair follicle testing offers superior accuracy compared to urine tests in Jefferson, SD. Hair tests provide a more comprehensive view of substance use, making them preferable for those needing reliable and extensive detection capabilities. The benefits of hair testing over urine are clear in how it ensures higher fidelity in drug testing outcomes.
In Jefferson, SD, the extended detection window of hair follicle tests allows for drug use history insights up to 90 days. This longevity surpasses urine tests, granting employers full visibility into an individual's potential substance use patterns over a significant timeframe.
Hair follicle tests stand out as a tamper-resistant drug testing method in Jefferson, SD. Unlike urine tests, hair tests are less susceptible to sample adulteration or substitution, providing businesses with confidence that the results are both reliable and conclusive.
Jefferson, SD benefits from comprehensive testing services through nationwide locations. Accommodating both local and broader needs, these centers offer convenient, hassle-free access to vital testing services, making it easy for businesses and individuals alike.
The process for hair follicle drug testing in Jefferson, SD is both simple and confidential. From ordering to receiving results, the procedure respects privacy while providing ease of use, addressing concerns while ensuring a seamless experience.
Accredited Drug Testing offers affordable pricing and a fast turnaround for hair follicle tests in Jefferson, SD. This provides businesses with excellent value, ensuring they maintain competitive edges at costs that won't burden their budgets.
In Jefferson, SD, hair follicle drug tests are recognized for their accuracy and speed. Such tests are adept in precisely identifying substance use, outperforming traditional methods in reliability. The efficiency ensures that results are delivered swiftly, offering businesses the confidence they need to make informed decisions.
Employers in Jefferson, SD can achieve compliance with workplace regulations using hair follicle testing. This method ensures adherence to drug-free policies, thereby mitigating legal risks. The peace of mind that comes with a safer work environment is invaluable.
