scope:

This guideline addresses blood gas, pH, and related measurements (eg, hemoglobin and hemoglobin fractions, oxygen content, hemoglobin-oxygen saturation, electrolytes, hematocrit, glucose, and lactate) as measured in blood. The guideline is limited to devices for measurement of these quantities in vitro. Devices for in vivo monitoring and patient-attached, ex vivo monitors for blood gas, pH, and related measurements, although common in many respects to devices for in vitro measurements, are not specifically addressed.

This document defines terminology and discusses performance characteristics as well as preanalytical variables, analytical considerations, and quality control (QC) issues.

This guideline is primarily intended for laboratory technologists, respiratory therapists, critical care practitioners, and others responsible for obtaining and analyzing blood for pH, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and related measurements. It will also be useful to manufacturers and those responsible for teaching this subject to medical students, residents, and allied health personnel.