Breath Alcohol Testing in Laredo, TX
Alcoholic beverages such as beer, liquor and wine are central nervous system depressants that can dramatically slow down the body’s vital functions, making it especially dangerous to drive and operate machinery. Immediately after consumption, alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. The effects—such as impaired judgment, slurred speech, unsteady movement and delayed reactions—can vary based on the age, weight and gender of the drinker as well as the volume of alcohol consumed and the amount of food eaten before or while drinking.
What Is Breath Alcohol?
Breath alcohol testing provides an estimate of the alcohol concentration in the blood by measuring the amount of alcohol in the air exhaled into a breath alcohol device. Routinely used by legal authorities to determine whether an individual is legally impaired and should not drive, breath alcohol testing can also be used to educate an individual on the amount of drinking that increases his or her blood alcohol concentration to a dangerous level. Additionally, many employers use breath alcohol testing in pre-hire decision-making, at random in a current workforce and for post-accident evaluations. VitalMed Urgent Care is pleased to offer this occupational health service at our walk-in clinics in Laredo, Texas.
How Does Breath Alcohol Testing Work?
Although the liver can metabolize consumed alcohol, it can only process a small amount at a time. Any excess alcohol remains in the blood and passes through the lungs. During the breathing process, alcohol in the blood evaporates into the air in the lungs. In Texas and most other states, a person age 21 or older with a blood alcohol level at or above 0.08% is considered to be legally intoxicated.
If you would like to take a breath alcohol test or learn more about the process, visit a VitalMed Urgent Care walk-in clinic today. We perform breath alcohol testing in a convenient, comfortable and discreet setting with no appointment needed.
