Ethyl Alcohol (EtOH) Test

An Ethyl Alcohol (EtOH) test is a test that measures the amount of alcohol in a person’s blood, urine, breath, or saliva.

Pre-test preparation: There is no specific preparation required for an EtOH test.

Testing method:

Blood test: A sample of blood is taken from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Urine test: A sample of urine is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Breath test: A person blows into a breathalyzer machine, which measures the amount of alcohol in the breath.
Saliva test: A sample of saliva is collected and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Common symptoms that may prompt your doctor to order an EtOH test include: slurred speech, unsteady gait, confusion, and impaired judgment.

Diagnosis: The results of an EtOH test are used to determine a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and to diagnose alcohol abuse or dependence.

Reference range:

Blood: 0.02% – 0.08%
Urine: 0.02% – 0.08%
Breath: 0.02% – 0.08%
Saliva: 0.02% – 0.08%
Normal values may vary depending on the laboratory that performs the test.

Medical disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. It is important to note that the legal limit of alcohol in blood varies between countries, and it is important to abide by the laws in your specific country.