Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests are increasingly recognized as an effective method for detecting drug and alcohol use. Hair offers a comprehensive historical record of substance intake by embedding biomarkers within the fibers as the hair grows. When cut close to the scalp, hair samples can reveal alcohol and drug use for a period of up to about three months. Hair collection is straightforward, challenging to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A hair sample measuring 1.5 inches and comprising roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) adjacent to the scalp can provide 100mg of hair, which is the optimal quantity for screening and confirmation purposes. For tests involving EtG, additional analytes, or panels exceeding 10, a specimen weight of 150mg is advisable. Using a jeweler’s scale for weighing the sample is suggested. If scalp hair is not available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. The term head hair specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types of hair (like facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The process for laboratory drug test results includes four key steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning entails the preliminary processing of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step involves confirming that the sample was appropriately sealed and shipped, assigning a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any necessary data entries not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a cost-effective method for eliminating drug use in most samples, confirmatory testing is required for any screen-positive results to be admissible in legal proceedings. Samples that test positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
If a sample tests positive in the Screening phase, additional hair is extracted from the initial sample and prepared for Extraction. During this phase, drugs are isolated from the hair at concentrations significantly lower than other testing methods (such as urine or oral fluid), which contributes to the complexity of hair drug screening.
Confirmation of any positive screening result is conducted using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All presumptive positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The complete laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation is evaluated under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and the ISO / IEC 17025 standards certification.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly known as "hair follicle tests", the procedure examines the hair strand and not the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Mount Crawford, VA
Hair follicle testing surpasses traditional urine tests in both accuracy and reliability. Unlike urine tests that typically detect recent usage, hair tests provide a broader detection window, capturing a fuller picture of an individual's substance use history. This capability makes hair testing a superior choice for policies demanding comprehensive drug-use deterrence.
Extended Detection Window in Mount Crawford, VA
The extended detection capability of hair follicle tests, capturing drug use up to 90 days prior, sets them apart from other methods. This longer time frame offers employers a substantial advantage, facilitating a more thorough understanding of an applicant's or employee's substance use history, proving invaluable in maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Mount Crawford, VA
Hair follicle testing minimizes the likelihood of sample tampering, guaranteeing dependable and trustworthy results. The collection process is directly observed, significantly lowering the chances of adulteration and ensuring integrity, thus providing assurance that the outcomes reflect accurate drug-use patterns.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Mount Crawford, VA
Our extensive network of nationwide testing centers offers convenient and stress-free access to drug testing services. Whether in Mount Crawford or elsewhere, our facilities are equipped to provide rapid services with minimal hassle, making the drug testing process straightforward and efficient for all.
Simple, Confidential Process in Mount Crawford, VA
The process of ordering, undergoing, and receiving hair follicle test results is designed to be both simple and confidential. From start to finish, we prioritize privacy, ensuring your information is protected and that the testing procedure is as seamless as possible, addressing any concerns one might have.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Mount Crawford, VA
Our competitive pricing structures coupled with quick result delivery offer exceptional value for organizations of any size. Knowing the importance of timely and cost-effective solutions, we strive to provide services that meet your needs without compromising on quality or peace of mind.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Mount Crawford, VA
Hair follicle drug tests in Mount Crawford offer a level of precision and speed unmatched by other testing methods. The analysis delivers high accuracy in detecting a wide range of substances, providing reliable results that your organization can depend on. With quick turnaround times, the efficiency of hair testing ensures you get the information you need without delay.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Mount Crawford, VA
Employing hair follicle testing helps ensure adherence to workplace drug-free policies, reducing the risk of legal repercussions and enhancing overall safety. By implementing such reliable testing methods, employers can maintain peace of mind, knowing they are upholding their obligations and responsibilities effectively.
