Arterial blood gas analysis: potential errors due to the addition of heparin.

Author(s): Hamilton RD, Crockett RJ, Alpers JH

Publication: Anaesth Intensive Care, 1978, Vol. 6, Page 251-5

PubMed ID: 31104 PubMed Review Paper? No

Purpose of Paper

Conclusion of Paper

Studies

1. Study Purpose

   The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of adding various quantities of sodium heparin from different manufacturers on pH, and blood gas levels. Blood was drawn from a single healthy volunteer on multiple days into tubes containing sodium heparin. Tonometered aliquots were stored on ice for 30 min and then transferred to syringes containing different amounts of sodium heparin.

   Summary of Findings:

   Linear decreases in pH and partial pressure carbon dioxide (PCO2) and an increase in partial pressure oxygen (PO2) occurred with the addition of increasing sodium heparin to tonometered blood. The effects on pH, pCO2 and pO2 only became significant when the volume of Allen and Hanbury's heparin added exceeded 10%, 5% and 15%, respectively. Interestingly, the magnitude of the effect of added sodium heparin on pH, pCO2, and pO2 was dependent on sodium heparin manufacturer. Use of Allen and Hanbury's heparin led to smaller changes in pH and pO2 than Weddel, Evans or CSL heparin.

   Biospecimens

   • Bodily Fluid - Blood

   Preservative Types

   • None (Fresh)

   Diagnoses:

   • Normal

   Platform:

   Analyte	Technology Platform
   Gas	Clinical chemistry/auto analyzer
   Small molecule	pH

   Pre-analytical Factors:

   Classification	Pre-analytical Factor	Value(s)
   Biospecimen Acquisition	Anticoagulant	Multiple concentrations evaluated Sodium heparin Multiple manufacturers evaluated

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