Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now recognized as a potent method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair offers a comprehensive overview of alcohol and drug history by encapsulating biomarkers within the strands' fibers as they grow. When obtained near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection timeframe of up to three months for alcohol and drugs. Hair collection is straightforward, hard to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with approximately 200 hair strands (roughly the width of a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp provides 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for both screening and confirmation. For EtG add-ons and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen amount of 150mg is advised. It is best to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. If scalp hair isn't accessible, a similar quantity of body hair can be used. "Head hair" refers exclusively to scalp hair. "Body hair" encompasses all other hair types (such as facial or axillary hair).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result encompasses four primary stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, a sample is initially integrated into the laboratory's system. This process ensures the sample was correctly sealed and sent, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completes any missing data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drug abuse. Though Screening is a cost-effective method to exclude drug usage in most samples, a positive result must be validated for court proceedings. Presumptive positive samples in Screening necessitate further confirmation.
If Screening identifies a sample as presumptively positive, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are drawn out from the hair at significantly lower concentrations than with other methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), rendering hair drug screening as the most challenging technique to execute.
Confirmation of any positive Screening outcome is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Prior to confirmation, all presumptive positive samples receive a wash if necessary. The complete laboratory procedure, from Accessioning to Confirmation, is conducted under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and adheres to ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although sometimes dubbed "hair follicle tests", the analysis focuses on the hair strand rather than the follicle situated beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Sweet Home, TX
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing excels in detection period and accuracy. With an extended window that tracks drug use up to 90 days, it provides a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's substance history. This method reduces the chances of evasion, ensuring enhanced reliability and helping Sweet Home employers make thorough and informed decisions.
Extended Detection Window in Sweet Home, TX
The ability of hair follicle tests to uncover drug use for up to 90 days offers a thorough perspective of an individual's substance history. This longer detection period is crucial for employers, giving them an in-depth view into habitual patterns rather than just recent behavior. Such insights assist in making informed hiring or retention decisions, with a focus on comprehensive workplace safety.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Sweet Home, TX
Hair follicle testing significantly minimizes tampering risks, ensuring the authenticity and dependability of results. This secure testing method deters attempts at sample adulteration, providing employers and legal entities with results they can rely on. With such reinforced measures, hair testing is unmatched in upholding the integrity of drug screenings in Sweet Home.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Sweet Home, TX
Our extensive network of testing centers across the country, including Sweet Home, TX, offers convenient and accessible hair follicle testing services. This ensures expeditious and seamless access to required testing without logistical challenges. Employers and individuals benefit from hassle-free and efficient testing processes ensured by our widespread locale coverage.
Simple, Confidential Process in Sweet Home, TX
Our streamlined process for ordering, completing tests, and receiving results prioritizes confidentiality at every step. Individuals can easily navigate the procedure, alleviating concerns about privacy and usability. This user-friendly approach ensures that testing is not only effective but also reassuringly discreet, with an emphasis on safeguarding personal information throughout the process in Sweet Home.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Sweet Home, TX
We offer competitive pricing structures and swift turnaround times that deliver exceptional value for businesses of all sizes. Especially in Sweet Home, TX, our services are designed to meet budgetary constraints without compromising on quality or speed. Organizations can rely on us for cost-effective and prompt solutions, enhancing operational efficiency and peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Sweet Home, TX
Hair follicle testing is renowned for its precision, offering speedy and reliable outcomes. The method’s sophisticated analysis accurately pinpoints substance usage, providing results that employers and individuals can trust. With high precision, this drug-screening approach helps maintain the integrity needed for informed decision-making, ensuring clarity and confidence in test outcomes.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Sweet Home, TX
Utilizing hair follicle testing assists employers in maintaining compliance with stringent drug-free workplace mandates. By adopting this reliable testing method, organizations safeguard against potential liabilities, fostering a safe and legally sound work environment. This not only fulfills regulatory requirements but also instills peace of mind among employers and employees alike.
