Measuring Ionized Calcium with the Nova 2 Analyser
Author Information
Author(s): P. Ferreira, B. E. Jacobson
Primary Institution: Department of Pathology, Division of Clinical Chemistry, Vancouver General Hospital
Hypothesis
This study investigates the performance of the Nova 2 analyser for measuring ionized calcium in clinical settings.
Conclusion
The Nova 2 analyser provides reproducible results for measuring ionized calcium, making it a valuable tool for clinical laboratories.
Supporting Evidence
- The Nova 2 analyser showed improved precision when serum or plasma was used instead of whole blood.
- Patients undergoing plasmapheresis exhibited a significant decrease in ionized calcium levels.
- Direct sampling from vacutainers was found to be a convenient method for introducing anaerobic samples.
Takeaway
The Nova 2 analyser helps doctors measure a specific type of calcium in the blood, which is important for health, and it works well if used correctly.
Methodology
The study involved using the Nova 2 analyser to measure ionized calcium in serum, plasma, and whole blood samples, with strict anaerobic conditions maintained.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the carbon dioxide permeability of the analyser's tubing and variability in electrode performance.
Limitations
The study faced issues with precision when using control serum compared to patient samples and variability in results between electrodes.
Participant Demographics
17 normal individuals aged between 18 and 40 years were included for establishing the normal range.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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