Evaluation of the Radiometer ‘ABL4’ pH/blood gas/K+/Hb analyser

The ABL4 analyser is designed for stat determination of blood gas (pCO2, pO2), pH, potassium and haemoglobin (Hb), a panel particularly adapted to the follow-up of liver transplantation. The performance of the analyser in classical tests was evaluated; in addition, K+ measurements were performed in specific conditions (linearity in a non-physiological range, erythrocyte interference). The evaluation of precision and comparison of methods were carried out according to the guidelines of the SFBC (Soci6t6 Franqaise de Biologic Clinique), which are similar to those of the NCCLS (EP5-P and EP9-P). Within-run and between-run precision and percentage CV were within the allowable limits of error (see table 1).