Hi Michael,
We have numerous blood gas analysers about the Trust.
The least used runs perhaps 10 samples a week, the
most used 40-50 per day. All, no matter what the
usage, receive daily quality control and are enrolled
in EQA schemes. The least used has better EQA scores
than the most used by some way, and is maintained
daily by two healthcare assistants who were trained by
me and do a fantastic job. The more an analyser is
used, the more it is likely to be abused, and the more
users are likely to ignore error flags.
Whether the usage of an anlayser is sufficient to
warrant its presence depends on several factors:
1. Cost. Is it really cost effective to install an
analyser at a unit cost of about £15000 for very few
samples? Consumable costs are cheaper with higher
volume, and then there are issues of staff training,
connectivity etc.
2.If there is no alternative (lab at remote site?) and
patient care necessitates immediate results, then
these considerations must influence decisions.
3. The degree of laboratory support that can be
provided. This must be included in all business cases,
along with internal QC and EQA.
4. Access. The main problem with any piece of POCT
equipment is the idiot who thinks they know how to use
it and doesn't. If you can lock out unauthorised users
by passwords, barcodes etc, and make it a disciplinary
offence to pass on a password, then you're in with
half a chance.
Hope this helps.
Jan Still,
POCT Manager,
Watford General Hospital,
Vicarage Rd,
Watford, Herts.
WD18 0HB
Tel- 01923-217998.
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