Point-of-Care Estimation of Haemoglobin Concentration in all Age Groups in Clinical Practice

ABSTRACT

Background: The measurement of haemoglobin (Hb) concentration provides a reliable; primary screening test for the presence and severity of anaemia. The HemoCuer is a point-of-care test for Hb measurement. The introduction of pointof- care testing in hospitals and general practice has improved patient care and accessibility. This study was performed to evaluate the utility of point-of-care Hb measurement with the HemoCuer device for the diagnosis of anaemia. Method: In this prospective study; we compared the analytical performance of the HemoCuer to the Coulterr LH 750 automated haematology analyser with regard to accuracy; precision and linearity in the measurement of Hb in adult and paediatric patient samples; referred for routine laboratory testing. Results: Samples from 100 patients were analysed with both instruments; and the results were compared using standard scatter and difference plots. The mean Hb value of the HemoCuer (11.3 g/dl; range 4.6-16.7) was comparable to the Coulterr LH 750 (11.3 g/dl; range 4.7-17.2). The Bland-Altman difference plot revealed good correlation. Bias between the two methods was small; and the imprecision was within acceptable limits. Hb measurement was linear in the range of 4.8-20 g/dl. Conclusion: In all age groups; the HemoCuer point-of-care device can be used to provide accurate and reliable Hb measurements with a smaller sample volume; improved turnaround time; and long-term cost saving