What Is an epoc Blood Test?
An epoc blood test is a rapid and reliable diagnostic tool used at the point of care to measure key blood parameters. Developed by Siemens Healthineers, this test allows healthcare professionals to quickly assess a patient’s blood gas, electrolyte, and metabolite levels. The epoc Blood Analysis System delivers results in less than a minute from sample application, making it an invaluable resource in critical care settings where every second counts. By providing accurate data on the spot, the epoc blood test supports fast clinical decisions and improved patient care.
What Is an epoc Cartridge?
The epoc System uses a novel test card format and is not a cartridge-based system. The epoc test card is a vital component of the epoc Blood Analysis System. This single-use test card is designed to handle the entire testing process, from sample application to analysis. Inside the test card, sensors work to measure multiple analytes from a small blood sample, providing comprehensive results with just one test. The test card’s stability at room temperature simplifies storage and handling, while its precise design provides consistent, high-quality results.
What Is the Sample Size for epoc?
The epoc Blood Analysis System requires a minimal blood sample size, making it ideal for situations where conserving patient blood is critical. When using a syringe, the system needs just 92 microliters of blood to conduct a full analysis. Alternatively, the epoc Care-Fill™ Capillary Tube requires only 90 microliters. This small sample size not only reduces the burden on patients, especially those in critical care or neonatal units, but also streamlines the testing process, allowing for quick, accurate results without the need for large blood draws.
How To Use the epoc Blood Analysis System
The epoc Blood Analysis System is designed to deliver fast, lab-accurate results at the point of care with a simple and intuitive process. Here’s how you can efficiently use the system to gather critical data for patient care.
- Step 1: Start the Test
Begin by scanning your operator ID to access the system. Insert an epoc test card into the Reader, which will automatically begin the calibration process. This step ensures the system is ready to provide accurate results. - Step 2: Collect the Sample
Draw a small blood sample using a syringe or an epoc Care-Fill™ Capillary Tube. The epoc System is designed to work with minimal blood volume, making it suitable for all patient types, including those in critical and neonatal care. - Step 3: Run the Test
Once the sample is ready, inject it into the test card. The system will then analyze the sample, measuring a broad range of parameters as listed in the epoc test menu. This comprehensive analysis is completed quickly, allowing for immediate review. - Step 4: Review the Results
In less than a minute, the results will appear on the epoc NXS Host’s touchscreen. The system’s user-friendly interface highlights critical values, enabling healthcare providers to make informed, timely decisions that can improve patient outcomes.
With its streamlined workflow and reliable performance, the epoc Blood Analysis System is an essential tool for delivering high-quality care when and where it’s needed most.
Siemens Healthineers: Your epoc Partner
The epoc Blood Analysis System exemplifies Siemens Healthineers' commitment to innovation in point of care diagnostics. By delivering fast, accurate results with minimal sample requirements, the epoc System empowers healthcare providers to make informed decisions quickly, enhancing patient outcomes across a wide range of clinical settings. As a trusted partner in healthcare, Siemens Healthineers continues to lead the way in developing solutions that streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and ultimately may help save lives.
Ready to bring the benefits of the epoc System to your facility? Contact us today to learn more or request a demonstration.
