ELite 3, User Manual
Page 30/72
5.
ROUTINE UTILIZATION and MEASUREMENT
5.1.
Sample handling
Since some time will usually elapse between collection of samples and counting, it is
necessary to preserve the sample with an anti-coagulant to prevent large groups of
cells forming into clots or lumps of cell matter that will clog the cell counter. Choice of
anti-coagulant is very important, as some anticoagulants will affect the shape and
size of blood cells. In general K3-EDTA (liquid), preferably potassium based, is the
only anti-coagulant recommended for use with electronic blood counters.
Care must be taken when using homemade containers pre-dosed with EDTA. If the
container is not filled with enough blood, the concentration of EDTA to blood may
reach a level, which results in osmotic transfer from the RBCs which shrinks them.
The concentration of EDTA to blood should not exceed 3 mg/ml. Generally, we
suggest using pre-manufactured sample tubes containing the necessary amount of
EDTA. Also, when taking blood, please make sure that requirements attached to
sample tubes are met.
Important
! Make sure to fill sample tubes to at least 7-8 mm height with blood
otherwise correct sampling cannot be guaranteed! Observe
marking on sample tube.
There is another possibility that can help the user to help the analyzer get a reliable
sample from the tube: using the needle setting function. This is available in
Measurement Local menu, and controls sampling height of the needle inside the
sample tube. If you have a sample tube with a higher/lower bottom, you can control
the sampling height adjusting this option. This can also help if sample level is too low
within a sampling tube.
Needle offset is displayed in the lower left corner of the measurement screen.
Attention! If you hurt yourself during analysis, biohazard substances can cause infection!
Always take special care to sharp objects and always use rubber gloves!
To initiate analysis:
1. Invert the closed sample tube at least 8 times to achieve a homogenous
sample. Do not shake the sample, because micro-bubbles can form inside
which may cause erroneous sampling!
You have the possibility to use 3 different interchangeable adapters for
different tube types. Tube types are shown in the next pictures:
•
Vacutainer tube adapter for 3-5 ml sample tubes
•
Micro adapter for micro-tainers
•
Control adapter for 2 ml blood control vial
