Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is now regarded as a robust method for identifying drug and alcohol use. It offers an extended timeline of alcohol and drug history by capturing biomarkers within the strands of growing hair. When collected near the scalp, hair can reveal a detection period of around 3 months for alcohol and drugs. It's straightforward to gather, relatively difficult to tamper with, and convenient to transport.
A hair sample of 1.5 inches containing around 200 strands (approximately the thickness of a #2 pencil) nearest the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the preferable amount for both screening and verification. For EtG, additional examinations, and tests exceeding 10 panels, a specimen of 150mg is advisable. It's recommended to weigh the sample using a jeweler’s scale. In cases where scalp hair is unavailable, a matching quantity of body hair might be collected. Referring to head hair specifically denotes scalp hair. Body hair encompasses any other types of hair (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The primary stages in the lab processing for a drug test outcome are Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the first phase where a sample is incorporated into the lab’s system. This step includes confirming that the sample is properly sealed for transit, assigning a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and finishing additional data entry lacking in an electronic chain of custody system.
Screening involves a preliminary rapid assessment for drugs of interest. While the Screening is a cost-efficient approach to dismiss drug consumption in most samples, any positive findings must be verified to be lawful in court. Any samples that preliminarily test positive during Screening require further corroboration.
If a sample shows a preliminary positive in the Screening stage, more hair is extracted from the initial sample for Extraction. During this process, drugs are pulled out from hair at concentrations significantly lower compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which makes hair drug screening the most challenging technique to conduct.
Verification of any positive screening results is performed via GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. All samples with presumed positives undergo washing as needed before confirmation. The whole laboratory sequence from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review per both CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and ISO / IEC 17025 standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Often termed as "hair follicle tests", the examination itself assesses the hair strand rather than the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Saint Peter, WI
In contrast to traditional urine tests, hair follicle testing offers superior detection accuracy and reliability. Hair tests provide a wide detection window, capturing drug use patterns that urine tests might miss. This advantage makes them a more effective tool for employers and other organizations seeking comprehensive drug use evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Saint Peter, WI
Hair follicle testing stands out for its extended detection period, which can reach up to 90 days. This long window grants employers a thorough understanding of an individual's substance use history. By offering insights over an extended timeframe, this method provides a more comprehensive profile than shorter-term tests.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Saint Peter, WI
Hair follicle testing significantly minimizes the potential for sample tampering. This means the results are more reliable and less susceptible to manipulation. For those requiring utmost accuracy and integrity in drug testing, hair tests offer a solution with near-impenetrable security against fraudulent practices.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Saint Peter, WI
With testing centers distributed nationwide, including in Saint Peter, accessing drug testing services has never been easier or more convenient. This widespread availability ensures that clients can easily and quickly access the testing services they need, saving time and reducing hassle.
Simple, Confidential Process in Saint Peter, WI
The process of ordering, conducting, and receiving hair follicle test results is straightforward and confidential. Privacy concerns are addressed, ensuring clients can undergo testing without worry. This approach simplifies the testing experience, offering peace of mind regarding both ease and discretion.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Saint Peter, WI
Hair follicle testing is competitively priced, making it accessible for companies of various sizes. Combined with quick turnaround times, this testing method offers excellent value. Businesses can expect cost-efficiency and prompt results, reinforcing peace of mind with reliable drug screening solutions.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Saint Peter, WI
The hair follicle drug test is renowned for its precision and speed in detecting substance use. It offers high accuracy rates, ensuring that results are both reliable and trustworthy. In comparison to other testing methods, hair testing provides a quicker turnaround, making it the preferred choice for those seeking efficient and dependable results.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Saint Peter, WI
Employers benefit from hair follicle testing by ensuring adherence to drug-free workplace policies. This method reduces legal risks and enhances workplace safety, providing peace of mind. By choosing hair testing, companies can confidently maintain compliant and secure working environments.
