Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for detecting substance use. Hair fibers capture biomarkers, providing a long-term history of drug and alcohol consumption. When hair is cut close to the scalp, it can reveal drug or alcohol use over a span of about three months. Hair sampling is straightforward, resistant to tampering, and convenient to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches, composed of roughly 200 hairs (equivalent to the thickness of a #2 pencil) from near the scalp yields 100mg, which is the optimal sample size for screening and confirmation. For EtG, additional tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, a 150mg sample is advised. It's recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler's scale. If scalp hair is not obtainable, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it specifically refers to scalp hair, whereas body hair encompasses all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory procedure for processing a drug test result encompasses Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the initial phase where a sample is integrated into a lab's system. This step involves checking that the sample was properly sealed and transported, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and completing any further data entry that the electronic chain of custody system doesn't cover.
Screening is a preliminary check for drug abuse indicators. While Screening is a cost-efficient method to rule out drug use in most samples, a positive result needs confirmation to be legally acceptable. Samples with presumptive positive results in Screening require further confirmation.
Should a sample test presumptively positive during Screening, additional hair is extracted from the original sample for the Extraction phase. Here, drugs are extracted from hair at significantly lower concentrations than other methods such as urine or saliva, making hair drug screening particularly challenging.
Positive screen results require Confirmation, done through GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples identified as presumptively positive are cleansed before confirmation as necessary. From Accessioning to Confirmation, the entire lab process adheres to both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Though commonly termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is performed on the hair strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in La Center, WA
Compared to traditional urine tests, hair follicle tests provide a broader detection scope, offering more accurate and reliable results. The extended detection period surpasses that of urine tests, and hair sample integrity ensures thorough scrutiny, making the hair test a superior choice for comprehensive substance detection.
Extended Detection Window in La Center, WA
With the ability to trace drug use for as long as 90 days, hair follicle testing grants employers a significant advantage. This extended detection window delivers detailed insights into an individual's substance use history, offering a more comprehensive review than shorter-term testing methods like urine tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in La Center, WA
Hair follicle tests stand out as a tamper-proof screening method, effectively minimizing the risk of sample adulteration. Their robust nature provides consistent, trustworthy results, ensuring inquiries into drug use are conducted with integrity and accuracy, eliminating skepticism over the authenticity of samples.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in La Center, WA
Our extensive network of testing centers across the nation, including local options in La Center, ensures easy access to drug testing services. Whether you're in urban or remote areas, our testing facilities provide hassle-free and timely testing experiences suited to your needs.
Simple, Confidential Process in La Center, WA
The process for hair follicle testing is straightforward and discreet. From ordering the test to collection and obtaining results, every step ensures confidentiality and ease of use, addressing clients' concerns about privacy while maintaining comprehensive testing standards.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in La Center, WA
Our hair follicle tests offer excellent value with competitive pricing frameworks and rapid result delivery. Our services cater to businesses of all sizes, delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality, fostering confidence through economical and swift testing.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in La Center, WA
Hair follicle drug tests offer unmatched accuracy and speed. They are particularly adept at identifying substance use, setting the standard for precision. With swift processing times, these tests deliver reliable outcomes far superior to many traditional methods, making them ideal for those requiring quick and accurate evaluations.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in La Center, WA
Employing hair follicle testing helps businesses maintain adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method minimizes legal risks and strengthens workplace safety provisions. By choosing hair tests, employers secure peace of mind regarding the reliability of their drug testing processes.
