Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair tests have widely gained recognition as an effective tool in identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair retains a comprehensive history of alcohol and other drug use by embedding biomarkers within the strands as they grow. When a sample is collected close to the scalp, it can reveal drug and alcohol use for up to roughly a three-month period. Hair collection is straightforward, somewhat resistant to tampering, and easy to transport.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches consisting of around 200 hair strands (equivalent to the size of a #2 pencil) close to the scalp can yield 100mg of hair, optimal for screening and confirmatory testing. For EtG, add-ons, and tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of hair is suggested. We advise using a jeweler's scale for specimen weight measurement. If scalp hair isn't available, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, we specifically mean scalp hair. Body hair includes all other hair types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The key stages in lab processing of a drug test result encompass Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning relates to the initial handling of a sample within a lab's system. This step confirms the sample was properly sealed and shipped, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finalizes any additional data input not included in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening serves as an initial rapid assessment for abused substances. While cost-effective at excluding drug use in most samples, a positive screen requires further confirmation for legal admissibility. Samples that test presumptively positive in Screening must undergo secondary confirmation.
In the event of a presumptive positive result during Screening, more hair is extracted from the original sample and processed for Extraction. At this stage, drugs are separated from hair at concentrations lower than those in alternative methodologies (e.g., urine or oral fluid), underscoring the complexity of hair drug screening.
Positive screening confirmations are performed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Any presumptive positive samples are cleansed before confirmation as needed. The complete lab process from Accessioning through Confirmation is evaluated under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair designation and compliance with ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly mislabeled as "hair follicle tests", the analysis actually focuses on the hair strand rather than the hair follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Hill, WI
Compared to standard urine tests, hair follicle testing demonstrates enhanced reliability and accuracy in drug detection. Hair tests offer a superior detection window, capturing substance use over a longer duration. This capability makes hair tests especially useful for employers and organizations aiming for a comprehensive overview of substance use patterns.
Extended Detection Window in Hill, WI
One standout feature of hair follicle testing is its ability to detect drugs over an extended period, up to 90 days. This lengthy detection window provides employers in Hill, WI, with a detailed perspective on an individual's drug use history, enabling more informed hiring and retention decisions.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Hill, WI
The inherent design of hair follicle testing significantly minimizes the possibility of sample tampering. Unlike urine samples, which can be adulterated, hair samples offer a reliable, foolproof testing method. This integrity ensures test results remain accurate and trustworthy, preserving their credibility.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Hill, WI
With numerous testing centers nationwide, our services offer unmatched convenience. For Hill, WI residents and businesses, accessing these drug testing services is quick and hassle-free. This network of locations assures easy availability and prompt service.
Simple, Confidential Process in Hill, WI
Ordering and undergoing a hair follicle test is straightforward and ensures confidentiality. From start to finish, the process is designed to maintain privacy and ease. Results are delivered securely, maintaining the discretion and comfort of all participants.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Hill, WI
Our drug testing services are offered at competitive prices, ensuring excellent value for every client, from large corporations to small businesses. Coupled with rapid turnaround times for results, these services provide peace of mind and practicality for budget-conscious organizations.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Hill, WI
Hair follicle drug tests stand out for their precision and swiftness in results delivery. These tests offer unparalleled accuracy when it comes to substance detection. For various entities, from employers to legal bodies, the dependability and thoroughness of hair testing provide critical information delivered promptly, ensuring decisions can be made without delays.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Hill, WI
Utilizing hair follicle testing aligns with maintaining drug-free workplace policies. This method of testing reduces the risk of legal issues and enhances workplace safety. Employers benefit from the peace of mind that comes from ensuring their respective organizations comply with necessary regulations.
