Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair testing is recognized as an effective method for identifying substance and alcohol usage. This method offers an extended history by sequestering biomarkers in the fiber structure of growing hair strands. When sourced near the scalp, hair can reveal drug and alcohol presence within an approximate three-month timeframe. Hair is straightforward to gather, relatively challenging to tamper with, and simple to transport.
A 1.5-inch segment of roughly 200 hair strands, comparable in size to a #2 pencil, adjacent to the scalp yields 100mg of hair, the optimal quantity for testing and validation. For EtG, supplementary tests, and/or tests exceeding 10 panels, 150mg of the sample is suggested. We propose using a jeweler’s scale for measuring the specimen. If scalp hair cannot be accessed, a similar volume of body hair can be utilized. When mentioning head hair, we mean scalp hair exclusively. Body hair encompasses all other hair forms (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The four pivotal steps in the lab analysis of a drug test outcome include Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning is the preliminary processing of a laboratory sample. This step confirms that the sample is properly sealed and dispatched, assigns a random LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and fulfills any additional data recording not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening provides an initial rapid assessment for drugs. Although Screening is cost-efficient to eliminate drug usage in most samples, a positive screening outcome necessitates verification for legal acceptance. Samples with presumed positives during Screening must proceed to secondary confirmation.
Samples indicating a positive result in the Screening step undergo additional hair extraction from the original sample for the Extraction phase. At this stage, drugs are separated from hair at reduced concentrations compared to other techniques (e.g., urine or oral fluids), demonstrating why hair drug analysis is notably complex to conduct.
Confirmation for any positive screening outcome uses GC/MS, GC/MS/MS or LC/MS/MS techniques. All presumptive positive samples undergo pre-confirmation cleansing if required. The full laboratory workflow from Accessioning to Confirmation is scrutinized per both the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair guidelines and accreditation per ISO / IEC 17025 criteria.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Commonly labeled as "hair follicle tests", these tests analyze the strand, not the follicle beneath the scalp.
Why Hair Follicle Testing Beats Urine Testing in Ahwahnee, CA
Hair testing outshines traditional urine tests by providing superior detection capabilities. Unlike urine tests that capture short-term use, hair follicle tests reveal extended substance histories, offering a true picture of usage patterns. Their reliability and inability to tamper make them a preferred choice for accurate evaluations.
Extended Detection Window in Ahwahnee, CA
Hair follicle testing excels with its ability to uncover drug use over a 90-day period. It offers employers a broad overview of an applicant’s or employee’s drug history. This extended detection window is invaluable for making informed hiring and retention decisions, ensuring a drug-free workplace setting.
Tamper-Resistant Testing Method in Ahwahnee, CA
Hair follicle tests are designed to minimize the risk of tampering, providing a reliable measure of drug use history. The stringent collection and testing processes ensure that the results are credible and trustworthy, leaving little room for manipulation. This offers employers confidence in the integrity of the test outcomes.
Convenient Nationwide Testing Locations and Local Locations in Ahwahnee, CA
With our extensive network of testing centers spanning nationwide, including convenient local options in Ahwahnee, CA, accessing testing services is both quick and easy. This nationwide presence ensures everyone can access testing effortlessly, supporting a hassle-free experience across locations.
Simple, Confidential Process in Ahwahnee, CA
Our streamlined process makes ordering and receiving test results straightforward and private. Clients can be assured of confidentiality throughout, from the moment of ordering to the receipt of results. Emphasizing ease and privacy, we ensure the testing process remains user-friendly and secure.
Affordable Pricing and Fast Turnaround in Ahwahnee, CA
We offer competitive pricing and prompt result delivery, providing excellent value for businesses of varying sizes. Our cost-effective solutions ensure fast turnaround, allowing companies to maintain operational efficiency while keeping expenses manageable, ensuring that high-quality results are accessible to all.
Fast, Accurate, and Reliable Results in Ahwahnee, CA
Hair follicle drug tests deliver swift, precise outcomes, crucial for employers needing reliable information. Their exceptional accuracy in identifying substance use makes them indispensable. Results typically reflect long-term substance history, offering employers a comprehensive insight without delays.
Compliance and Peace of Mind for Employers in Ahwahnee, CA
Utilizing hair follicle tests helps ensure adherence to drug-free policies, significantly reducing legal liabilities. By fostering a safe working environment, it enhances company reputation and minimizes risks associated with substance use. Employers gain peace of mind knowing their workforce complies with policy standards.
