Blood alcohol level of 40-59 mg/100 ml

This code indicates a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 40 and 59 milligrams per 100 milliliters (mg/dL). This level is generally associated with mild impairment, such as altered judgment, reduced inhibitions, and some loss of coordination. While not legally intoxicated in all jurisdictions, it signifies a measurable presence of alcohol in the bloodstream with observable effects.

Use this code when documentation clearly specifies a blood alcohol level within the 40-59 mg/100 ml range, often identified through laboratory testing. This is typically applied in cases involving alcohol-related incidents, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, or other injuries where alcohol consumption is a contributing factor and the specific BAC is known.

• Always ensure the medical record explicitly states the blood alcohol level falls within the 40-59 mg/100 ml range.
• This code is an external cause code and should be used as a secondary code to describe the circumstances of an injury or other condition.
• Do not use this code if the documentation only states "alcohol present" without a specific quantitative level.