Point Of Care Testing

Point of Care Testing refers to testing that is performed outside the Laboratory at ward level and at clinics, usually by Medical and Nursing Staff. The result is obtained very quickly and can be acted upon straight away leading to quicker diagnosis and treatment and better patient outcomes.

Examples of Point of Care Testing Devices at Cork University Hospital:

• Blood Gas Analysers: For measuring Oxygen and Carbon Dioxide levels in Blood as well as Acid/Base parameters, electrolytes and metabolites. Blood Gas Analysers are located in all Critical Care Areas such as the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Units and Theatres.
• PCR testing for Infectious Diseases: PCR Analysers in the Emergency Department are capable of detecting Covid-19, Influenza A and B in nasopharyngeal swabs.
• Glucometers: For measuring blood glucose levels in diabetic and non-diabetic patients to identify those with Hyper or Hypo Glycaemia.
• Ketone Meters: For measuring Ketone Levels in patients with Diabetic Ketoacidosis.
• iStat Alinity: For POC Creatinine measurement in Radiology department
• DCA Vantage: For measurement of HbA1c in Paediatric Clinic