Hemoglobin Testing with Hemocue Quick Procedure for Daily Reference
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Note: This is a abbreviated version of the complete procedure which is described in full detail in the Hemoglobin Testing with Hemocue Analyzer Procedure in the Clinical Nursing Practice Manual. This does not supercede the full procedure but is intended to be a practical day-to-day quick reference. View the full Nursing Policy here.

 Specimen Collection Instructions:

• Obtain the sample by fingerstick as described in the Clinical Nursing Practice Manual. Cleanse and lance the finger and lightly press the finger using a rocking motion to stimulate blood flow. Wipe off the first two drops of blood before collecting into the cuvette.
• The blood is collected directly into the testing cuvette. Fill the cuvette in one continuous process. If the cuvette is not completely filled with one drop of blood, get a new cuvette and start over to properly fill in one process. Do not put the same cuvette back to the sample.
• Venous blood and arterial blood may be used with the cuvettes filled from a syringe.

 Testing:

• Wipe off any excess blood from the outside of the cuvette but do not touch the open end of the cuvette. Wipe the two flat sides with a downward motion.
• Check for the presence of air bubbles or for inadequate filling of the cuvette. Get a new sample if either condition is found.
• Place into the analyzer immediately but at least within 10 minutes of sampling. Place the filled cuvette into the holder and push the holder to the measuring position. The results will appear in approximately 15-60 seconds.
• Record the results. Write your name, the date and time and the findings on the patient’s chart. Even though the results are stored in the instrument, you must follow this procedure.
• Discard the cuvette in the appropriate waste container and discard the lancet in the sharps container.

 Quality control:

• Maintain the proper storage conditions, keeping the cuvettes tightly closed and at room temperature.
• Date the vial of cuvettes on opening. The cuvettes are good for 90 days once opened.
• Blood controls must be dated when opened and can be stored at Room Temperature or in the refrigerator. They are good for 30 days from the open date. Bring the controls to room temperature before use and be sure to mix them well before testing.
• Run the low and high controls daily. Both levels must pass before patient testing can be performed. The instrument will lock out patient testing if the quality control does not pass within the acceptable limits.
• All discrepancies in the QC must be documented using the Comment input button.
• The QC activities are downloaded and recorded in the data management system.

DO NOT TURN OFF THE HEMOCUE WHEN REDOCKING THE ANALYZER. TO ACTIVATE THE INSTRUMENT, SIMPLY TOUCH THE SCREEN.

Revised 5/25/07