Blood gas analysis from an arterial sample will provide information about lung function and overall acid-base balance. The choice of which crystalloid fluids to administer is based on electrolyte and acid-base status. In addition, testing for activated clotting time will assist with the diagnosis of anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning. The cartridges that test glucose, electrolytes, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and acid-base status are most helpful. IndicationsThe i-STAT cartridges can be used 3 ways: for diagnosis/treatment, to determine prognosis, and for ongoing monitoring.ĭiagnosis & TreatmentResults obtained provide information that permits the clinician to set up a treatment plan and give direction to owners about next steps. The results are both measured directly and calculated from measured results. Heska offers 11 separate cartridges for the analyzer-they vary from a single test (ie, glucose, creatinine, activated clotting time, cardiac troponin) to cartridges that yield 13 results (see Table). Since the machine contains no electrodes, no maintenance is required and calibration is performed automatically at regular intervals. This battery-operated analyzer uses self-contained disposable cartridges and requires only 0.05 ml of whole blood. The use of an i-STAT (Heska, handheld clinical analyzer allows the clinician to quickly and easily assess initial emergency blood analyses. Needless to say, in emergency situations the veterinarian and patient both benefit from quickly obtained blood analyses. In addition, urine specific gravity and a blood smear will help determine an initial plan of treatment. A starting point for blood analysis includes blood glucose, packed cell volume, blood urea nitrogen, electrolytes, and blood gases. A more detailed secondary examination and diagnostics such as blood analysis, urinalysis, and imaging studies should be performed after initial stabilization. After initial airway, breathing, and circulation problems are addressed, more information is needed to help treat and diagnose the patient. Veterinarians in all types of clinical practice see emergency patients.
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