What is the role of liquid controls in i-STAT testing?

Liquid controls in i-STAT testing play a crucial role in confirming the accurate results of cartridges. These controls are specifically designed to mimic the characteristics of patient samples and provide a benchmark against which test results can be compared. By using known values for each control, healthcare professionals can ensure that the testing equipment and cartridges are functioning correctly and producing reliable results.

When liquid controls are run and their results fall within established ranges, it demonstrates that the test system is performing properly and can be trusted to provide valid results for actual patient samples. This is essential in a clinical setting where accurate and timely diagnostic information is vital for patient care.

The focus of liquid controls is not on verifying patient identification, measuring fluid levels, or testing for contamination; instead, they are a quality assurance measure aimed at confirming that the testing process is accurate and dependable.