Siemens Rapidlab 1200, Operator'S Manual, Page: 98 / 448

2-10 Rapidlab 1200 Operator’s Guide: Operating the System
02087462 Rev. V
You can store a sample collected in a glass syringe in the ice slurry for up to 2 hours
without significant change in values for pH and
p CO
2
, however, this affects the K
+
and lactate values. Samples with elevated white blood cell or reticulocyte counts
deteriorate more rapidly, and you should analyze them immediately.
• Before you analyze the sample, roll the syringe or the capillary tube between your
palms and gently invert it several times to mix the sample thoroughly.
Blood cells settle during storage, and if you do not mix the sample well before
analysis, the total hemoglobin results obtained can be falsely decreased or increased.
Mix all samples using a consistent technique.
• If the sample is chilled or has been stored for more than 10 minutes, increase the
mixing time to ensure that the sample is thoroughly mixed.
• Position any labels toward the back of the syringe barrel near the plunger so the label
does not block your ability to insert the syringe into the system or cause it to fall off
after it is inserted.
• Dispose of used sample devices according to your institution’s infection control
policy.
Understanding System Limitations
The following procedural limitations apply to Rapidlab 1260 and 1265 systems:
•
Avoid hemolyzed samples because they falsely elevate potassium levels due to
intra-erythrocyte potassium levels.
• Avoid samples with elevated levels of salicylates, salicylate derivatives such as
ibuprofen, and bromide (Br¯), because they falsely elevate chloride levels.
• Avoid samples contaminated with perchlorate (ClO
4
¯), thiocyanate (SCN¯), iodide
(I¯), and nitrate (NO
3
¯), because they falsely elevate chloride levels.
• Avoid using excessive levels of heparin anticoagulants.
Excessive levels of heparin anticoagulants cause calcium-heparin chelation and
falsely decrease calcium levels.
• Avoid using sample collection devices containing fluoride/oxalate anticoagulants
(gray-top tubes).
These anticoagulants have a significant effect on glucose and lactate.