Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
The utilization of hair testing has gained recognition as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol consumption. Hair acts as a long-term record of alcohol and drug usage by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the growing hair strand. When hair is obtained near the scalp, it can offer a detection timeframe of up to roughly three months for alcohol and drugs. The collection of hair is straightforward, relatively challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, containing approximately 200 hair strands (equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) closest to the scalp, will yield 100mg of hair, which is the optimal sample for analysis and validation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a sample of 150mg is advised. It is suggested to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair cannot be obtained, an equivalent quantity of body hair may be used. References to head hair pertain solely to scalp hair. Body hair encompasses all other hair types (such as facial and axillary).
Process Overview
The primary steps in the laboratory processing of a drug test result include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves the initial integration of a sample into a lab's system. This process includes confirming that the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizing any additional data not available through an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening entails an introductory rapid examination for substances of abuse. While Screening offers a cost-efficient means to dismiss drug usage in most samples, positive results necessitate confirmation to be valid in court. Any samples deemed presumptively positive during Screening require secondary confirmation.
If a sample reports as presumptively positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the original sample and prepared for Extraction. During this stage, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than in alternative methodologies (such as urine or oral fluid), explaining why hair drug screening is the most complex methodology to implement.
Confirmation of any positive screening outcome is executed through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as required. The comprehensive laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is examined under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often referred to as "hair follicle tests," the test examines the hair strand and not the follicle beneath the scalp
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Booth, TX
Compared to urine tests, hair follicle testing in Booth, TX offers enhanced detection accuracy and reliability. Its extended detection window and tamper-resistant nature make it superior, providing employers with a comprehensive assessment of drug use history.
Extended Detection Window in Booth, TX
Hair follicle testing in Booth, TX provides an extensive detection window, capturing substance use over a span of up to 90 days. This offers employers a thorough understanding of an individual's past substance history, facilitating informed decision-making.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Booth, TX
The integrity of hair follicle testing in Booth, TX greatly minimizes the potential for tampering. This method offers reliable and indisputable results that are difficult to manipulate, ensuring trustworthy data for critical evaluations.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Booth, TX
With an extensive network of testing centers, including convenient locations in Booth, TX, our services provide easy and hassle-free access nationwide. This ensures quick and efficient testing processes for everyone involved.
Simple, Confidential Process in Booth, TX
Our hair follicle testing process in Booth, TX is designed to be simple and confidential. From ordering the test to receiving the results, we prioritize privacy and ease, addressing any concerns related to confidentiality.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Booth, TX
Our competitive pricing and fast turnaround times make hair follicle testing in Booth, TX an excellent value proposition. We serve companies of all sizes, ensuring cost-effective and speedy solutions for drug testing needs.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Booth, TX
The hair follicle test delivers not only prompt results but also superior accuracy in identifying substance usage. In Booth, TX, this method ensures precise and swift detection, providing peace of mind for both individuals and organizations relying on dependable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Booth, TX
Employing hair follicle testing supports workplace drug-free policies, helping Booth, TX employers stay compliant and reduce legal risks. This approach enhances workplace safety, offering assurance and peace of mind to employers.
