i-STAT Biochemical Analyzer

The i-STAT Biochemical Analyser provides a mini biochemistry laboratory in the aircraft so that critically ill patients can have their blood tested during flight and appropriate treatment given.  

The i-STAT only requires a 0.2 mL sample of blood which is put into a small cartridge and then inserted into the i-STAT analyser. Two minutes later the test results are shown and can be printed out on an IR linked portable printer.  The results are extremely accurate and the units are regularly calibrated and tested with reference samples to ensure accuracy.  

The i-STAT analyser can perform essential biochemical, haematological and blood gas assays on seriously ill patients. These tests include serum Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Glucose, pO2, pCO2, pH, Haemoglobin and a number of other calculated parameters.

These parameters are extremely helpful in managing critically ill patients on ventilators where the ability to monitor blood gases ensures that ventilation is maintained within appropriate parameters for the patient.  The measures of electrolytes such as Sodium and Potassium are very helpful in patients with acute and chronic renal disease and in children with severe gastroenteritis and dehydration.  The Haemoglobin level in the blood is useful in a range of patients.

Every RFDS retrieval with a medical team uses this device to manage critically-ill patients.  The combination of tests in a single cartridge costs only $10 to perform.

 Approximate cost of an i-STAT is A$ 10,000

Additional information:

i-STAT Biosensor Technology

i-STAT Quality Control