Validation protocol for multiple blood gas analyzers in accordance with laboratory accreditation programs

ABSTRACTIntroduction:The results of blood gas analysis using different instrumentation can vary widely due to the methodological differences, the calibration procedures and the use of different configurations for each type of instrument.Objective:The objective of this study was to evaluate multiple analytical systems for measurement of blood gases, electrolytes and metabolites in accordance with the accreditation program (PALC) of Sociedade Brasileira de Patologia Clínica/Medicina Laboratorial (SBPC/ML).Materials and methods:20 samples were evaluated in three ABL800 Flex (Radiometer Medical ApS, Denmark) blood gas analyzers, and the results were compared with those of the device in use, which was considered the reference. The analysis of variance (Anova) was applied for statistical purposes, as well as the calculation of mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation.Results:The p values obtained in the statistical analysis were: pH = 0.983, pO2 = 0.991, pCO2 = 0.353, lactate = 0.584, glucose = 0.995, ionized calcium = 0.983, sodium = 0.991, potassium = 0.926, chlorine = 0.029.Conclusion:The evaluation of multiple analytical systems is an essential procedure in the clinical laboratory for quality assurance and accuracy of the results