Co-oximetry

Purpose:
The Programme aims to assess the performance of organisations utilising blood gas analysers for the analysis of the patients’ haemoglobin and co-oximetry status.

The Programme is available to both Laboratory and Point of Care testing sites and is part of the Blood Gas and Co-oximetry Programme offering the complete repertoire of blood gas analytes including calculated parameters, electrolytes, metabolites and Co-oximetry.

Scope:
The material is a blood-based matrix containing the 4 major haemoglobin derivates as well as Bilirubin and unlike dyes provided by other EQA providers has equivalent spectral properties to whole blood and is therefore compatible with all major Co-oximeters. Three samples are distributed monthly, with a minimum of 33 samples distributed over the year covering a wide clinically relevant range. The samples are packaged in an easy to use dual-chambered vial that separates the oxyhaemoglobin from methaemoglobin to enhance stability.

The samples consist of a panel of 6 linearly related samples distributed on a number of occasions over that period which are used to assess both laboratory and method performance, including linearity, bias, within and between batch imprecision. Once a year, tonometered whole blood is also distributed which allows for the assessment of the derived parameter Oxygen Saturation. Participants can also select to receive 3 samples, 6 times a year.

Key Features:

Panel covers clinically relevant range.
Easy to use vials with minimal preparation time.
Material contains the 4 major haemoglobin derivates and Bilirubin.
Compatible with all major Cooximeters.

Frequency:
Monthly

Samples:
3 x 2.0mL

Material:
Bovine haemolysate solution

Co-oximetry Programme
Analyte	Approx. Range Covered
Total Haemoglobin (ctHB)	100 - 190	g/L
Carboxyhaemoglobin (FCOHb)	1 - 32	%
Methaemoglobin (FMetHb)	2 - 35	%
Oxyhaemoglobin (FO2Hb)	35 - 95	%
Oxygen saturation (sO2) Annual assessment	90 - 100	%
Bilirubin (ctBil)	0 - 100	µmol/L