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7.1.3 Open or Closed Sample Tubes
The ‘ELite 5’ can process both open and closed sample tubes in manual mode using the
sample rotor. Manually presented sample tubes must be mixed properly before being
presented to the ‘ELite 5’ analyzer.
Only closed sample tubes will be automatically processed by the optional Autosampler. Open
sample tubes placed in the Autosampler will be skipped and not processed.
In Small Sample Mode ‘ELite 5’ can only take sample from vial with the cap REMOVED!
7.1.4 Sample Collection and Handling
Please consider the following when collecting and handling blood samples:
• The ‘ELite 5’ analyzer aspirates 110 µL of sample in both closed and open vial
modes. Under the following conditions, the ‘ELite 5’ may aspirate less than 110 µL of
sample, but will detect and flag any inadequate sample aspirations:
- The sample tube does not vent properly and contains residual vacuum
- The viscosity of the blood is very high
• The ‘ELite 5’ is unable to aspirate the last 8 mm (0.31 inches) or 0.3 to 0.5 ml of
sample volume.
• Make sure that the sample tube is filled to the sample level line indicated by the tube
manufacturer. The anticoagulant not only prevents the coagulation of blood, but also
dilutes it. If the volume of blood is too low, than this dilution can adversely affect
measurement results.
• Ensure that the blood and anticoagulant are properly mixed by inverting it at least 8
times. Do not shake the sample as this could damage blood cells.
• A minimum of 30 minutes should elapse between taking the blood sample and
running it on the ‘ELite 5’ for analysis to ensure that the interaction of blood and
anticoagulant has fully stabilized. Check the data sheet of the sample tube for the
exact period of time.
• Use only K
3
-EDTA anticoagulated fresh whole blood as sample.
• Analyze blood samples within 7 hours of collection.
• Samples should be analyzed at room temperature.
• Do not deliver or store the samples at temperatures above normal body temperature.
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