A drug-testing plan is more than a list of test dates. It identifies the specimen type, collection requirements, verification process, completion window, and shipping procedure that apply when a participant is selected.
Continuum offers saliva and nail testing for healthcare professionals nationwide. Both can be completed from home through the assigned video-verification process.
Two different collection methods
Saliva testing uses an oral-fluid collection kit. Nail testing uses a clipping specimen collected according to the kit instructions. Because the collection methods are different, the preparation and verification steps are also different.
No specimen type should be described as universally “best.” The appropriate test depends on the plan, the purpose of testing, and any requirements established by an authorized outside party.
How saliva testing works
For an assigned saliva test, the participant uses the oral-fluid kit delivered to the home and follows the required video-verification and collection instructions. The completed kit is secured, placed in the prepaid shipping envelope, and delivered to an authorized FedEx location.
Saliva testing offers a practical home-collection process that can be completed within the same-day testing window without arranging a conventional collection-site appointment.
How nail testing works
For an assigned nail test, the participant collects the required clipping specimen according to the instructions and video-verification process. The completed specimen is then sealed and returned using the provided prepaid packaging.
Nail testing is an additional specimen option within an individualized monitoring plan. Continuum does not publish generalized detection-window or accuracy claims because laboratory methods, testing panels, specimen requirements, and outside standards can vary.
Practical comparison
| Feature | Saliva testing | Nail testing |
|---|---|---|
| Specimen | Oral fluid collected with the assigned kit. | Nail clippings collected with the assigned kit. |
| Location | Completed at home when assigned. | Completed at home when assigned. |
| Verification | Video verification follows the saliva-kit procedure. | Video verification follows the nail-kit procedure. |
| Return | Sealed in prepaid packaging and taken to FedEx. | Sealed in prepaid packaging and taken to FedEx. |
| Assignment | Established by the monitoring plan. | Established by the monitoring plan. |
How a plan assigns testing
The monitoring plan determines the assigned specimen type and testing frequency. Participants should not substitute one test for another without authorization. When an employer, treatment provider, licensing board, attorney, or another party has specified requirements, those requirements should be confirmed before the plan begins.
Learn more about Continuum’s Saliva and Nail Drug Testing service.
Sources and further reading
These sources provide general professional-program and testing background. Continuum’s services and procedures are described separately throughout this article.
- New Hampshire Professionals Health Program — Treatment Referral MonitoringPublic example showing that professional monitoring programs may use multiple forensic specimen types, including hair or nails.
- SAMHSA — Drug-Free Workplace FAQsFederal information regarding authorized oral-fluid testing in federal workplace programs; these rules do not define all non-federal monitoring plans.
- Continuum Monitoring — Saliva and Nail Drug TestingContinuum’s current specimen options and at-home collection process.