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HelpTest Code POCT115 POCT Blood Gas (EPOC)
Intended Use
pH, pCO2, and pO2: used in the diagnosis and treatment of life threatening acid-base disturbances.
TCO2: used in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders associated with changes in body acid-base balance.
Methodology
pH is measure by potentiometry using a pH selective membrane. The concentration of hydrogen ions is determined from the measured potential using the Nernst equation. pO2 is measured by amperometry using a membrane covered oxygen sensing cathode electrode. The oxygen reduction current is proportional to the dissolved oxygen concentration. pCO2 is measured by potentiometry using a membrane covered pH sensing electrode. The electrode voltage is proportional to the dissolved carbon dioxide concentration through the Nernst equation. TCO2 is a measurement based on the modified Henderson-Hasselbalch equation using pH and pCO2 values.
Performing Laboratory
SPH-STH-LDH-CUH
Specimen Requirements
Indicate whether specimen source is arterial, venous, or capillary.
Fill blood gas syringe or capillary tube to the recommended capacity or use the least amount of liquid heparin anticoagulant that will prevent clotting. Mix blood and anticoagulant by rolling syringe between palms for at least 5 seconds and then inverting the syringe to maintain anaerobic conditions. Forward STAT at ambient temperature.
Specimen Type:
Preferred: Heparinized Syringe (Must be tested within 30 minutes)
Acceptable: Plain Plastic Syringe (Must be tested within 3 minutes)
Expel any air bubbles immediately after collection.
Specimen Stability
Ambient: Specimens should NOT be put on ice.
Specimen must arrive within 10 minutes if drawn with anti-coagulant.
Specimen must arrive within 2 minutes if drawn without anti-coagulant.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
82803