jANICE
We've supported arterialised ear lobe capillary blood gas sampling for some years - its a bitch to set up but once staff are confident it becomes easier. The arterialising is to put algepan on the ear for a minimum of 10 minutes prior to sampling. Some patients are sensitive to this stuff and invariably to appearance is a 'glowing ' redness. Generally it works and at po2 of 8kPa it compares with arterial. I've enclosed our protocol that contains some references.
Derek
-----Original Message-----
From: Janice Still [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 15 May 2003 16:09
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Capillary blood gases
I have been approached by the outreach nurses for our
Coronary Care team who would like to do capillary
blood gases on COPD patients attending clinics. What
would be the most suitable sample type? Has anyone
experience of ear-lobe sampling, and do you use
anything to improve perfusion? All information or
caveats welcome.
Jan
=====
Mrs. J. Still,
POCT Manager,
Biochemistry Dept,
Watford General Hospital. 01923-217998.
The views expressed in this message are personal and do not reflect West Herts NHS Hospitals Trust policy.
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