Breathalyzer

Negative alcohol testing is required for PEMs.  This means 0.000%.

Procedure:

• • Clean hands.  Do not use hand sanitiser when handling breathalyser.

  • Ensure client has not had anything by mouth in last 10 minutes. 

  • Ensure calibration is in date.

  • Insert mouthpiece into 'blow in' hole, keeping the patient side enclosed in plastic.

  • Press and hold 'test' button for 2 seconds.

  • Allow the 15 seconds for unit to warm up.

  • After 15 seconds, the unit will beep and the LCD will display "C - C - C- C" meaning it is ready to test.

  • Ask client to blow out 6 seconds slow and steady until audio sound stops.

  • If blowing is interrupted or short then an "ERR" will appear.  Repeat above steps.

  • Test result will be displayed on screen.

IF 1st reading is Positive (0.001 and above):

• Wait 20 minutes.  Ensure no food or drink is consumed in this time.

• Repeat breathalyser test once 20 minutes has lapsed.

IF 2nd reading is 0.000:

• Document result in PEM.

• Note both results in comments section.

IF 2nd reading is Positive (0.001 and above):

• Document result in medical.

• Notify employer immediately.

Calibration

• • To be completed every 12 months by BP medical.