How accurate is the HemataSTAT®?
HemataSTAT® is accurate +/- 1% if the hematocrit is displayed in whole numbers, +/- 0.5% if the hematocrit is displayed with the decimal. When compared to the NCCLS method, the Correlation Coefficient is 0.9978.
What is the hematocrit range it will read?
HemataSTAT® has been tested to be accurate from 16% to 60%. This does not necessarily mean that it will not read or that it is not accurate outside of that range. We have simply not done the testing. Customers’ independent tests have found HemataSTAT to measure extremely low hematocrits accurately.
Do I need to perform packing time tests?
No. The design and technologies utilized in HemataSTAT® centrifuges eliminate the need for a maximum packing time test.
Can I use a sample from an EDTA tube?
Yes, just make sure that the sample is well mixed first.
When drawing the sample from an EDTA tube, do I need to use a heparinized capillary tube?
No. An EDTA tube is an anticoagulation tube (it has something in it to stop the blood from clotting) so heparin in the capillary tube is not needed.
What is the CPT Code?
The CPT code for spun hematocrits is 85013.
Sometimes there is a line of red cells through the plasma after I spin a tube. Is that normal and will it affect the results of the reading?
It is normal and it will not affect the results.
What if I get an air bubble in the sample?
No problem. It will not affect the result.
How often should I use HemataCHEK® and should I use all three levels?
Your internal requirements and the requirements of your regulatory agency should determine the frequency and level(s) used.
Which size I.D. (inside diameter) capillary tubes should I buy?
Most facilities use 1.1mm I.D. tubes. 0.5mm I.D. are generally used for pediatrics because of the smaller sample required.
Why are my tubes leaking during centrifugation?
Be sure to fill tubes using these steps:
1. Fill the capillary tube ½ to ¾ full.
2. Let the specimen flow down the tube until it is near the dry end. Then place your finger over the wet end of the tube to stop the flow. (Stop the specimen before it goes into the area where the sealant will go - that area must remain dry.)
3. With the sealant on a flat surface, insert the dry end of the tube into the sealant, pushing it to the bottom of the tray. Twist the tube when removing it from the sealant to prevent the sealing plug from being extracted. Repeat.
4. Gently tap the sealed end of the tube on a flat surface.
- Use HemataSEAL® tube sealant only.
- Store HemataSEAL® at room temperature. Excessive heat will render the compound not suitable for positive sealing.
- Do not smooth out the used sealant in order to extend its use. This may result in leakage or blowouts.
Why is it hard to fill my self-sealing tubes?
The vial containing the tubes should be capped at all times except when capillary tubes are removed for use. Prolonged exposure to moist air can cause impaired capillary action. If this should occur, reseal the vial with the desiccant cap and allow 24 hours before reusing. This should restore normal capillary action.
Why are my self-sealing tubes leaking?
The blood should make contact with the self-sealing plug for at least 30 seconds before spinning.
Why is it hard to fill my plastic tubes?
While filling the tube, be sure to hold the tube straight and tip the dry end down to utilize gravity. Bending the tube will interfere with the capillary action.
Is it necessary to periodically discharge and charge the battery pack?
No.
How many spins can I complete on a battery charge?
A fully charged nickel metal hydride battery pack should provide greater than 75 spin cycles assuming that the time to read the tube is less than one minute and that the centrifuge is turned off when not in use.
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