The portable laboratory: an evaluation of the accuracy and reproducibilityof i-STAT (c)

The i-STAT(C) point-of-care testing analyser, which utilizes single-use mul tisensor cartridges, was evaluated. Two cartridges were assessed: the 6+ an d the G3+, which provide results for urea, glucose, sodium, potassium, chlo ride, haematocrit, pH, PCO2, PO2 and various calculated parameters. The res ults for all analytes agreed well with the analysers in routine use in the laboratory. The reproducibility was comparable even when analysis was carri ed out by a nurse with only 5 min training. The system was found to be reli able, easy to use and required no maintenance (only a 2-min daily check of the electronics). These features, together with portability and the storage capacity for results, make the i-STAT suitable for point-of-care use, part icularly in critical care units.