ITC Avoximeter 1000E Whole Blood Oximeter - Manual (Page 34)

ITC AVOXimeter 1000E Operator’s Manual
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Sample Collection and Preparation
Sample Collection
Collect freshly-drawn whole blood samples in a heparin- or EDTA-anticoagulated syringe. Do not
use samples that contain excessive volumes of anticoagulant or are diluted with saline.
Note: Refer to CLSI document H18-A3, entitled “Procedures for the Handling and
Processing of Blood Specimens – Approved Guideline, Third Edition” for additional
information on sample collection.
CAUTION: Universal safety precautions should be taken when handling and
processing samples. Spills should be immediately disinfected with an appropriate
disinfectant solution to avoid spreading contamination to laboratory personnel or
equipment.
Sample Preparation
1. If the sample was not infused into the cuvette immediately after blood draw, mix
the whole blood sample by rolling the syringe between the palms of your hands.
2. Connect a syringe containing the sample to an unused cuvette. Hold the cuvette
by means of the finger grip on the black cap (see below).
3. Firmly holding the syringe and cuvette at a 45 degree angle, fill the cuvette by
gently pressing the syringe plunger.
CAUTION: Never force sample into the cuvette. If a cuvette does not fill
easily, discard it and use a new one.
4. Fill cuvette until the sample fills the cuvette to the opposite end. Do not continue
to fill the cuvette and cause the vent patch to bulge.
CAUTION: Carefully review the additional precautions on page 9.
5. Verify that the light path area is free of bubbles.
6. Remove any sample from the exterior of the cuvette before placing the cuvette
(with syringe still attached) into the test chamber.