Abbott i-STAT 1 System Manual page 499

The i-STAT PT/INR test can be performed using capillary or venous samples.
Skin Punctures
1. Remove cartridge from foil pouch and place the cartridge on a flat surface.
2. Prepare lancet device and set aside until needed.
3. Clean and prepare the finger to be sampled using a 70% aqueous solution of isopropanol (70% v/v).
Allow the finger to dry thoroughly before sampling. When disinfecting fingerstick skin puncture
sites, swabs or solutions containing substances other than isopropanol (e.g. Chlorhexidine
Gluconate) are not recommended. Refer to the "Limitations of the i-STAT PT/INR Test" section
above for more information.
4. Prick the bottom side of the fingertip with the lancet device.
5. Gently squeeze the finger, developing a hanging drop of blood and perform the test with the first
sample of blood. Avoid strong repetitive pressure ("milking") as it may cause hemolysis or tissue
fluid contamination of the specimen.
6. Touch the drop of blood against the bottom of the sample well. Once in contact with the sample
well, the blood will be drawn into the cartridge.
7. Apply sample until it reaches the fill mark indicated on the cartridge.
8. Fold the sample closure over the sample well.
9. Press the rounded end of the closure until it snaps into place.
Note: To further simplify the sample application into the test cartridge, it is possible to bring the cartridge
to the finger for easier application. Do ensure that the instrument remains on a flat vibration-free surface
for testing.
Venipunctures
• Collection technique resulting in good blood flow must be used.
• The sample for testing should be drawn into a plastic collection device (either a plastic syringe or
plastic evacuated tube).
• The collection device cannot contain anticoagulants such as heparin, EDTA, oxalate, or citrate.
The collection device cannot contain clot activators or serum separators.
•
• The sample should be immediately dispensed into the sample well of a cartridge. A drop of blood
should be touched against the bottom of the sample well. Once in contact with the sample well, the
blood will be drawn into the cartridge.
• If a second measurement is required, a fresh sample should be obtained.
Note: Some experts recommend drawing and discarding a (venous) sample of at least 1.0 mL prior to
drawing sample for coagulation testing.
Rev. Date: 01-Mar-12
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Art: 715236-00N
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PT/INR - 7