CLSI C27 A : 1993

Establishes guidelines for collection and handling an arterial blood specimen for pH and blood gas analysis; addressing the condition of the patient, the collection procedure and containers to be used, the collection of special samples, and the transportation and laboratory handling of the specimen. Covers calibration of blood gas analyzers, including kinds of calibrants, methods of calibration, and sources of error. Gives definitions of quality control materials, procedures for tonometry of whole blood and acqueous solutions, and requirements for commercial blood gas controls. Recommendations for an acceptable quality control program is also included.(See related publications C12-A, C21-A, H11-A2, and M29-A.)