Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair gives an extended timeline of substance use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, it can reflect a drug or alcohol detection span of up to three months. Hair collection is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising around 200 hair strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp yields 100mg, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation tests. For EtG, additional tests, and tests beyond 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. We suggest using a jeweler's scale for weighing the sample. In cases where scalp hair is inaccessible, a similar amount of body hair can be used. "Head hair" signifies scalp hair exclusively, while "body hair" includes all other hair types (e.g., facial, axillary).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test involves four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial step where the sample is integrated into the lab’s system, which includes verifying the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entry absent from an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drug presence. While efficient in eliminating drug use suspicions from most samples, a positive screen must be confirmed for legal acceptance. Presumptive positives in Screening require a follow-up confirmation.
For presumptive positives found during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. This phase involves retrieving drugs from hair at a lower concentration than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening a challenging process.
Confirmation of any positive screening is carried out using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS techniques. All samples marked as presumptive positives undergo a washing process before confirmation, as necessary. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review according to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Despite being commonly called "hair follicle tests," these tests actually assess the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Princeton, TX
Scoring above traditional urine tests, hair follicle drug tests in Princeton, TX showcase exceptional detection capabilities. They offer superior accuracy and reliability, especially for long-term substance traceability, making them an optimal choice for comprehensive assessments of drug use history.
Extended Detection Window in Princeton, TX
Hair follicle testing in Princeton, TX offers an extended detection period, tracing drug use up to 90 days. This provides employers a fuller perspective on an individual’s substance habits, ensuring informed decisions are made when assessing applicant or employee histories.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Princeton, TX
Princeton, TX benefits from the robust nature of hair follicle drug tests which curtail tampering risks significantly. The integrity of this testing method ensures results that hold firm against manipulation, yielding conclusions that clients can trust without hesitation.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Princeton, TX
With an extensive network of testing locations, Accredited Drug Testing ensures convenience for those in Princeton, TX. Our service offers seamless access to drug testing facilities both locally and nationwide, promising a straightforward, user-friendly experience for all clients.
Simple, Confidential Process in Princeton, TX
In Princeton, TX, the process for hair follicle testing is both straightforward and discreet, ensuring client confidence. From order placement to receiving results, every step respects privacy, addressing user concerns for an easy, confidential testing journey.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Princeton, TX
Offering competitive pricing, Accredited Drug Testing provides excellent value in Princeton, TX, complemented by rapid result delivery. Our services cater to businesses of varying sizes, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and prompt service as cornerstones of our client satisfaction strategy.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Princeton, TX
Hair follicle drug tests in Princeton, TX provide results with unparalleled precision, delivering timely outcomes. This method shines for its swift analysis paired with its highly accurate detection of substance abuse. Users benefit from a testing process that not only delivers speed but also maintains a high standard of dependability.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Princeton, TX
Employers in Princeton, TX find reassurance in hair follicle testing, which aids in fulfilling workplace drug-free mandates. This method promotes compliance, mitigating legal concerns, and fortifying the safety of the work environment, stressing reliability in drug policy enforcement.