Hand-Held Blood Analyzer Receives CE Mark

Globally, demand for healthcare is growing as people live longer, chronic diseases are more prevalent and people are more involved in decisions pertaining to their health. As more people access care, health systems, hospitals and other clinical care settings are challenged to keep pace and find resourceful, efficient and cost-effective ways to provide quality care.

In today's pressure-packed healthcare environment, clinicians rely on easy-to-use testing technologies that do not require complex training. Innovative point of care testing tools can help address this need and provide a simpler experience for those who use it, allowing them to accurately diagnose and treat patients faster and more efficiently.

An innovative, handheld blood-testing platform has received the CE Mark and is now for sale in Europe and other countries that recognize CE Mark. The portable device can perform and analyze the largest menu of blood tests on a single device, ranging from blood chemistries to cardiac markers, using only two to three drops of a person's blood. Delivering results in two to 10 minutes, the device equips healthcare professionals with the information they need to make fast and accurate medical decisions without ever leaving their patient's side. Its advanced connectivity features allow testing to be conducted virtually anywhere.

The i-STAT Alinity System (Abbott Point of Care Inc, Princeton, NJ, USA) returns results within two to 10 minutes and can run tests including blood chemistry and cardiac biomarkers. The system features expansive testing menu capabilities to enable the most combinations of tests in a single cartridge and new types of tests in the future, including tests for brain injury, infectious disease and oncology. Advanced quality control features designed with patient safety and regulatory compliance in the forefront; wireless or hard-wired connectivity so healthcare providers can manage diagnostic data and oversight with the broader healthcare system's network.

The system also features a large, bright, color touchscreen with graphics-driven, on-screen guidance and advanced light and sound notifications that alert clinicians with critical information. An ergonomic design with easy-grip handling that is balanced, comfortable and secure and durable materials designed to prevent damage from drops and harsh cleaning substances commonly used in clinical settings.

Matt Bates, PhD, divisional vice president of research and development at Abbott’s Point of Care Diagnostics division, said, “We spent countless hours doing on-the-ground research with doctors, nurses, lab directors, point of care coordinators and other customers from around the world. We asked about their pain points and listened to what they want and need for testing. Using these customer insights, Abbott designed and built i-STAT Alinity for better access, efficiency and speed to improve clinical decision making and positively impact patients' lives.”

Related Links:
Abbott Point of Care