Clinical Chemistries: Automated analyzers Flashcards
What principle are automated analyzers based on?
Spectophotometry
What is spectophotometry?
Measures the amount of light transmitted through a solution
Beer-Lambert’s Law
A linear relationship between the absorption of light and concentration of a substance
The greater the concentration of enzyme in serum absorbs more light
What is happening inside of the machine?
Light source—>the Lens–>Filter or Monochromator–>sample–>detector–>read out device
What are the two types of chemistry analyzers
Dry chemistry
Liquid systems
What does a dry chemistry analyzer use?
Reagents on slides or cartridges
What does a liquid system analyzer use?
Bottles of reagents and sample rotor
Dry Chemistry Analyzer
Adds serum sample to reagent slides
Analyzer measures the color changes
Usually requires a warm-up period
Slides are single or clips and are kept in the freezer or fridge
What are the layers of the slides or clips made up of?
1st; Patient sample-serum or plasma
2nd: Spreading layer- sample is distributed
3rd: FIltering layer- removes interferences
4th: Reagent layer- reacts with the sample
5th: Indicator layer-spectral analysis
6th: Support layer-optical interface
Rotor Analyzer
Liquid systems are usually more accurate
Can be time-consuming to run
Do not need to warm up the machine
Needs more maintenance
Why is there a cost concern with the rotor analyzer?
You can not just run a single clip you have to run the entire rotor
Software Integration
Allow for integration into practice management software
Enables results to be recorded into patient records
Eliminates missed charges
What is an example of a dedicated use analyzer?
Glucometer
Instrument care and Use
Analyzers are sensitive instruments Must be carefully maintained Follow manufacturer's instructions Allow for warm-up periods Leave on through the day Schedule maintenance sheet and log Post the toll-free number for help if needed
Quality Control
Standard operating procedures to ensure results are accurate
