IFCC reference measurement procedure for substance concentration determination of total carbon dioxide in blood, plasma or serum

A reference measurement procedure for substance concentration determination of total CO, in blood, plasma (the anticoagulant is usually heparin) or se rum is described. The document covers the principle of the method, the mate rials and equipment needed and essential aspects of the procedure. The subs tance concentration of total CO, in blood, plasma or serum is accurately de termined and therefore this procedure is recommended for assigning referenc e values to reference materials and for blood gas quality assurance in labo ratories and by manufacturers of blood gas equipment.