Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
In recent years, hair testing has emerged as an effective technique for detecting drug and alcohol consumption. Utilizing biomarkers captured in the fibers of the growing hair strand, hair reveals a prolonged record of alcohol and drug use. If gathered near the scalp, hair offers an approximate detection window of 3 months. The process of collecting hair is straightforward, relatively resistant to tampering, and convenient for transportation.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, consisting of approximately 200 hair strands (comparable to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from the scalp, yields 100mg—the optimum amount for screening and confirmation. For EtG, add-ons, and/or testing exceeding 10 panels, it is advisable to collect 150mg. We suggest using a jeweler’s scale for precise weighing. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent volume of body hair can be collected. "Head hair" pertains only to scalp hair, whereas "body hair" encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The lab processing of a drug test result involves four key stages: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
During Accessioning, the sample is initially entered into the laboratory’s system. This step includes confirming the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and filling in any data not covered by an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. Although Screening is cost-effective in ruling out drug usage for most samples, a positive result necessitates confirmation to be legally admissible. Presumptive positives from Screening require further confirmation.
When a sample is likely positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original specimen for the Extraction process. Drugs are extracted from hair at notably lower concentrations than other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), hence, hair drug screening presents greater challenges.
Confirmation of any positive result from screening is performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All likely positive samples undergo washing before confirmation as needed. The entire lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is scrutinized under both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although often termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination involves the hair strand rather than the scalp's hair follicle.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Warm Springs, VA
When comparing drug tests, hair follicle testing shines above urine testing with its superior detection accuracy and reliability. In Warm Springs, VA, this method is not only more precise but offers a broader detection window, making it invaluable for employers and legal bodies. The comprehensive results from hair testing provide peace of mind, unlike the more limited urine tests.
Extended Detection Window in Warm Springs, VA
Hair follicle testing is exceptional for its ability to detect substance usage over an extended period of up to 90 days. In Warm Springs, VA, this method provides employers with an in-depth view of an individual's drug history, making it a crucial tool for maintaining safety and ensuring qualified, substance-free candidates in the workforce.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Warm Springs, VA
The hair follicle testing method significantly minimizes the risk of sample tampering, providing trustworthy results. By reducing the possibility of adulteration, this testing approach offers organizations in Warm Springs, VA, an unparalleled level of reliability in drug screening, ensuring accurate assessments and unbiased outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Warm Springs, VA
Offering unparalleled convenience, our nationwide testing centers ensure that individuals in Warm Springs, VA, have quick, easy, and hassle-free access to needed services. With a broad network, our testing centers provide both local and widespread locations ensuring comprehensive testing availability.
Simple, Confidential Process in Warm Springs, VA
Our process is designed to be simple and confidential, respecting privacy at every stage. Whether ordering, taking, or receiving your results, clarity and ease are prioritized. In Warm Springs, VA, individuals can trust our discreet approach, which assures that sensitive information remains secure and stress-free.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Warm Springs, VA
With competitive pricing and rapid turnaround times, our services offer unmatched value to businesses of all sizes in Warm Springs, VA. Our cost-effective strategies ensure that companies receive timely and reliable results, reinforcing the principles of fiscal prudence coupled with exceptional service delivery.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Warm Springs, VA
Hair follicle tests deliver rapid and dependable outcomes, ensuring that substance use detection is both precise and swift. In Warm Springs, VA, this testing method stands out for its unrivaled accuracy, providing individuals and organizations the assurance they need. By firmly identifying drug use, hair tests prove to be an invaluable resource in maintaining trust and compliance.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Warm Springs, VA
In Warm Springs, VA, hair follicle testing ensures adherence to drug-free workplace policies, reducing potential legal complications and enhancing safety. By offering a dependable method for screening, employers can maintain compliance and focus on fostering a healthy, secure working environment, secure in the knowledge that policies are being followed.
