Aims-To compare arterial blood gas (ABG) readings obtained with a multipara
meter intra-arterial sensor with those from an ABG analyser.
Methods-An MPIAS with the ability to measure continuously pH, PaCO2, and Pa
O2 was introduced via an umbilical arterial catheter in 27 neonates requiri
ng intensive care. They underwent 3260 hours of MPIAS monitoring, during wh
ich 753 ABG readings were performed.
Results-Overall bias (mean difference: MPIAS-ABG) and precision (standard d
eviation of differences) values were: -0.002 and 0.022, respectively, for p
H; +0.26 and 0.52 for PaCO2 (kPa); and -0.19 and 0.99 for PaO2 (kPa). This
gave 95% limits of agreement as: -0.047 to +0.042 for pH, -0.76 to +1.28 kP
a for PaCO2, and -2.13 to +1.75 kPa for PaO2. For each variable, precision
across readings from the same individual was better than overall precision
for all data. No complications related to the use of the catheter were obse
rved.
Conclusions-Continuous MPIAS ABG monitoring is an exciting development, wit
h the potential to reduce blood transfusions and improve ABG homeostasis.