Ethanol

Clinical Chemistry

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Description

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Indications

Specific quantitation of ethanol (e.g. patients undergoing alcohol-free regimes, workplace testing). Investigation of suspected overdose or poisoning (part of the toxicology screen). This test is not suitable to guide urgent medical care, due to its limited availability. In such cases, request "alcohol" (test available 24/7).

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Sample Type

Blood (fluoride oxalate - grey top), random urine no preservative (white top)

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Reference Range

Ethanol is normally absent from blood and urine.

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Turnaround Time

Within 3 days

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Testing Frequency

Daily: Monday to Friday only

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External Notes

This method is specific for ethanol.

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Patient Preparation

No specific patient preparation is required for clinical care. Results provided by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals are for clinical purposes only. Results are not suitable for and should not be used for medico-legal purposes.

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Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.