Hi
We use Quadratech Check 4 test strips, visual detection. We produce an in-house QA sample which we send to each site (20 in all) within the hospital and some external sites. The QA sample is spiked to different concentrations each month, some very low, around 25 mIU/L to test the ability of staff to detect at this borderline level. The lab is enrolled in NEQAS for this test strip but not our users.
We are happy with the strip performance. The concentration of the QA sample is established by testing it on the Roche E170 modular analyser. We had a couple of Clinitek Status readers (ED and dermatology) but the cartridges were withdrawn by Siemens last year and are yet to resurface.
Our training consists of performing a strong, weak and negative test so that staff can see the difference. We regularly find that digital timers have gone missing when we audit. We re-issue these whenever we find them absent. This is probably the biggest pitfall of visual read tests- accurate timing. Nursing staff do not seem to take on board that fob watches or mechanical timers are not accurate enough.
I hope this helps
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