Blood Gas Measurements Using Point-of-Care Testing Devices in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Introduction: There is an increasing use of point-of-care testing (POCT) devices for patients. These portable devices are preferred by healthcare personnel because they are quick and easy to use. The aim of this study was to investigate whether POCT devices can provide rapid and reliable blood gas measurements. Methods: Blood gas measurements were performed for 30 pediatric patients at the University of Health Sciences Turkey, Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital using a POCT device and a fully automatic blood gas analyzer. Eleven parameters (pH, pCO2, pO2, sodium, potassium , calcium , glucose, lactate, hematocrit, cHCO3, and cSO2) were compared. The statistical analyses were performed using the NCSS software. To determine the correlation between the two methods, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated, and Bland-Altman graphs were used. Results: The ICC demonstrated an almost strong correlation with pH (ICC=0.889), pCO2 (ICC=0.968), pO2 (ICC=0.981), sodium (ICC=0.799), potassium (ICC=0.968), calcium (ICC=0.909), glucose (ICC=0.967), cHCO3 (ICC=0.919) and cSO2 (ICC=0.988) and moderate correlation with lactate (ICC=0.626) and hematocrit (ICC=0.491). All p-values were all <0.001 for all analytes. Conclusion: The POCT device was compared with a fully automatic blood gas analyzer. Unjustified postponement of analysis in patients with respiratory failure, shock, or electrolyte disorders can delay the application of appropriate treatment. Not only the benefits of an accurate POCT measurement but also the benefits of clinical practice and process changes should be taken into consideration.

Keywords

• point-of-care testing devices
• poct
• blood gas