Answer :
Final answer:
To calibrate the blood pH mode of a blood gas analyzer, start by calibrating the pH meter at pH 4, 7, and 10. Rinse and dry the electrode between immersions in standard buffers, make the necessary adjustments on the meter, and ensure the electrode is kept moist when not in use. Recalibrate if accuracy is suspect.
Explanation:
To calibrate the blood pH mode of a blood gas analyzer, follow these steps:
- Begin by calibrating the pH meter with buffer solutions at pH 4, 7, and 10 to ensure a broad calibration range. This step is crucial for obtaining accurate measurements within +/- 0.06 pH units.
- Rinse the pH electrode thoroughly with deionized water and blot it dry with a laboratory wipe, being careful not to rub the electrode as this can cause static electricity build-up and result in inaccurate readings.
- Place the electrode in the buffer with a pH of closest to 7, swirl it gently, and allow it to become stable. Adjust the meter to show the accurate pH by using the "Standardize" or "Calibrate" control.
- Rinse and dry the electrode again before placing it into the second buffer solution. Once the measurement stabilizes, adjust the "Slope" or "Temperature" control to display the correct pH value.
- Always maintain the end of the probe immersed in a holding solution when not in use to prevent it from drying out. After the procedure, return the probe to its storage solution.
- Check the meter's temperature compensation feature, if available. Insert a temperature probe, set the meter to the correct solution temperature, and use the "Calibrate" and "Slope" controls for calibration.
It is important to always calibrate your pH meter before use, and to recalibrate if there are any doubts about the meter's accuracy.
