
Chapter 3
Instrument operation
25
Osmo1
®
Single-Sample Micro-Osmometer User Guide
The flowchart in Figure 11 illustrates the recommended daily procedure.
Test
appropriate
controls or
reference
solutions
Results
within
expected
range?
Verify
calibration
Test
samples
Yes
Recalibrate
No
Run
calibration
routine
Passed
calibration?
Troubleshoot/
correct errors
No
Yes
Prepare
osmometer
2.
2.1
2.2
1.
3.
Figure 11: Daily-operation flowchart
3.2 Sample preparation
Sample preparation is not required. Body fluids such as
serum or plasma may be measured directly.
NOTE:
Additives such as anticoagulants from collection
tubes may contribute to the measured osmolality.
Particulate matter normally eliminated by
centrifugation in blood or centrifugation/filtration
in urine may cause premature crystallization, such
as sample pre-freeze.
3.3 Best practices
For best results, adhere to these guidelines when testing:
•
Avoid testing in drafty areas.
•
Verify that the sample is thoroughly mixed.
•
Keep sample fluids covered if possible to minimize
evaporation or contamination.
•
Never re-run a previously-used sample.
•
Do not re-use sample tips or cleaners.
3.4 Preparing the Osmo1 for testing
Before starting a test, verify that:
•
The Osmo1 is displaying the Home screen.
•
The empty operating cradle is in the furthest position
from the sample port.
•
Any cleaner from a previous test is removed from the
port and discarded.
•
The Micro-Sample Test Kit is properly installed.
The Micro-Sample Test Kit must be in the appropriate
place on the top left of the instrument before testing
can begin. As shown in Figure 12, the box must be
oriented so that the photo of the instrument and box
label are toward the back, and the dispensing flaps for
the chamber cleaners and sampling tips are toward the
front. For more information, see “Placing the Micro-
Sample Test Kit on the instrument” on page 18.