Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis has become recognized as an effective method for identifying the presence of drugs and alcohol. Hair offers a historical record of alcohol and drugs by capturing biomarkers within the fibers of the developing hair shaft. When taken near the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to roughly three months for both alcohol and drugs. Collection is straightforward, alteration is relatively challenging, and it is simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of around 200 hair strands (approximately the diameter of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields about 100mg of hair, which is the preferred sample size for both screening and confirmation. For testing beyond 10 panels, EtG, and/or additional options, a sample of 150mg is advised. It's recommended to use a jeweler’s scale for weighing the specimen. If scalp hair isn't accessible, a comparable quantity of body hair can be gathered. Head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory process for analyzing a drug test result includes four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning involves incorporating a sample into a lab’s system initially. This stage includes ensuring the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigning a randomized LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data input not captured by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial swift assessment for substance abuse. Despite being a cost-effective approach to eliminate drug use in most samples, a positive screen necessitates confirmation for court admissibility. Samples that are provisionally positive in Screening must undergo further confirmation.
When a sample tests presumptive positive during Screening, additional hair is retrieved from the original sample for Extraction. In this phase, drugs are withdrawn from hair at concentrations lower than those in alternative methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most intricate methodology to execute.
Any positive screening findings are validated using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptively positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The full lab process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under the supervision of both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the accreditation to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually examines the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Calliham, TX
Extended Detection Window in Calliham, TX
With a span of up to 90 days, hair follicle testing provides an extensive period for detecting drug use, making it advantageous for employers. This feature offers a comprehensive view of an individual's substance usage over time.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Calliham, TX
Hair follicle tests are trusted for their tamper-resistant nature. Unlike other methods, the risk of sample adulteration is minimized, thereby assuring the reliability and unquestionability of results.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Calliham, TX
Our expansive network of testing centers nationwide, including Calliham, provides hassle-free access to testing services, ensuring convenience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Calliham, TX
Our testing process is designed for simplicity and confidentiality, addressing privacy concerns. From ordering to receiving results, every step is user-friendly and discreet.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Calliham, TX
Our competitive pricing model and swift turnaround times make our services a valuable choice for businesses, ensuring affordability without compromise on quality.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Calliham, TX
Conducting hair follicle tests in Calliham offers quick and precise results. Boasting high accuracy levels, these tests efficiently detect substance use. As a method celebrated for its reliability, hair testing ensures confident outcomes, promoting trust in the detected results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Calliham, TX
Implementing hair follicle testing helps companies adhere to drug-free policies, minimizing legal risks. This enhances workplace security and ensures peace of mind for employers, fostering a safer work atmosphere.
