Rickair is correct - the guy had a 0.14 or so, which is typically around 6-8 standard drinks. It may be hard to detect, from seeing lots of people who are quite skilled alcoholics in the ER even doing an exam sometimes can be missed. Probably would have clear speech and could hide with other scents.

That being said, usually "everybody" knows who the boozers are through the grapevine. I know who is a drinker at my hospital. it is just hard to hide. I'd never condone or look the other way if anybody came in drunk before a case or clinic though, nor would I hope any of you would.

Tell them to call in sick, and seek help. If the problem came back or they tried again, then tough love would be in order.

Many alcoholics are surprisingly high-functioning.