Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as a significant method for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive history of alcohol and drug use by capturing biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When hair is collected near the scalp, it can provide a detection window of nearly 3 months for alcohol and other substances. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample of 1.5 inches comprising roughly 200 hair strands (equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg, which is the ideal amount for screening and confirmation. For enhanced testing such as EtG or panels beyond 10, 150mg of hair is advised. It's suggested that the sample be measured on a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent amount of body hair is suitable. When mentioning head hair, it refers solely to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedures for processing a drug test sample consist of four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning includes the preliminary integration of the sample into the lab's system. This step involves confirming that the sample was sealed and sent appropriately, allotting a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any extra data entry absent in an electronic chain of custody.
Screening entails a preliminary check for substance abuse. While Screening is an economical method to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive result from Screening requires confirmation to be valid in legal settings. Any presumptive positive samples necessitate further confirmation.
If the Screening stage indicates a presumptive positive, additional hair is extracted from the sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are isolated from hair at much lower concentrations compared to other methods like urine or oral fluid, making hair drug testing the most challenging method to execute.
Confirmation of positive Screening findings is executed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples are washed before confirmation, as necessary. The entire laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair standard and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Outshines Urine Testing in Sharps Chapel, TN
Hair testing offers superior accuracy compared to traditional urine tests. This method captures drug use over an extended period, providing a more comprehensive overview. Its reliability and non-invasive nature make it the preferred choice for those seeking dependable results, reducing the chances of false-negative outcomes.
Extended Detection Window in Sharps Chapel, TN
Hair follicle testing gives a detailed view of substance use up to 90 days prior. For employers, this offers a broader understanding of an employee's or candidate's drug history. It extends beyond the limited few days detectable by urine tests, making it advantageous for long-term substance use monitoring.
Tamper-Proof Testing in Sharps Chapel, TN
Hair follicle tests minimize the risk of tampered samples. Unlike alternatives that can be easily adulterated, hair testing provides results that stand up to scrutiny. Its rigorous collection process ensures that the samples remain unaltered, ensuring integrity and peace of mind for those who need unquestionable outcomes.
Accessible Testing Locations in Sharps Chapel, TN
Our testing centers are conveniently located nationwide, including strategic spots near Sharps Chapel. This extensive network of facilities ensures users can easily and promptly access testing services. The hassle-free approach simplifies the testing process for employers and individuals alike.
Seamless and Confidential Process in Sharps Chapel, TN
The procedure for hair follicle testing is simple and respects privacy. From order to results, confidentiality is central, addressing concerns about privacy without complicating the process. Employers and individuals are ensured a straightforward experience that prioritizes their privacy concerns.
Cost-Effective and Quick Testing in Sharps Chapel, TN
Our competitive pricing and fast turnaround times make hair follicle testing a valuable choice for businesses of all sizes. These features provide an economic advantage without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. This service ensures high-quality testing that fits within budgetary constraints.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Testing in Sharps Chapel, TN
Hair follicle testing offers unparalleled speed and precision. Its ability to accurately detect substance use makes it invaluable for employers and individuals seeking trustworthy results. Compared to urine tests, hair tests provide clearer insights into an individual's drug use history, allowing for more informed decision-making.
Employer Confidence in Sharps Chapel, TN
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with maintaining a drug-free workplace and adheres to policy compliance. This method not only diminishes legal risks but also bolsters workplace safety. The assured consistency of the results mitigates potential disputes and liabilities, granting employers peace of mind.
