Sixteen new blood gas analyses are being used by the Blood Sciences Department across University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) to measure the lung function of patients who have COVID-19.
The OPTI CCA TS2 blood gas analysers test the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood which can tell staff how well a patient’s lungs are working. The analysers also measure the pH level in the blood which flags if a patient is developing sepsis.
The devices have gone through a verification process to ensure that they are fit for purpose before being delivered to the wards that need them the most.
Janet Eglin, Technical Services Manager, said: “This type of analyser will help to detect whether patients with COVID-19 are going into respiratory distress and flag potentially life-threatening conditions such as sepsis. It is also extremely easy and safe for our staff to use.
“The Trust’s Point of Care Testing, Medical Engineering and Supplies teams have all worked hard to successfully procure this precious resource during the COVID-19 pandemic
“I would like to thank the suppliers Una Health who responded amazingly quickly. This quick turnaround has enabled us to fulfil our requirements to provide blood gas testing analysers and the necessary consumables to be able to deliver an essential diagnostic service for our most poorly patients.”
‘Foluke Ajayi, Chief Operating Officer, UHMBT, said: “I want to thank everyone involved in getting the blood gas analysers to the Trust so quickly. They are an essential piece of equipment that will ensure patients with COVID-19 receive the right treatment and very best care possible.”