There are various types of centrifuges – small bench-top, large capacity refrigerated, high-speed refrigerated, and more. While simple benchtop models have low revolutions per minute (rpm) of 500, there are expensive models with rpm values of up to 30,000.

Laboratory Risks

Medical centrifuges operate at an average speed of 3000 rpm and are used to separate serum or plasma from whole blood samples or for sediment concentration from urine samples. The device can cause injury if not properly used. Some of the potential hazards are:

• The risk associated rotor failure caused by the high kinetic energy of a bowl or chamber spinning at very high speed
• Danger of lab personnel coming into contact with moving parts or hot surfaces
• Mechanical failure of a part can cause discharge of pieces of metal or production of sparks
• Centrifuges get easily contaminated by spills and aerosols produced during centrifugation. Aerosols from broken tubes containing infectious material can spread illness

Ensuring Safety

Exercising caution when buying a laboratory centrifuge and proper use can ensure user safety and prevent damage to the device:

• Always go for an advanced model from leading manufacturers. LW Scientific, the Drucker Company, Unico manufacture top-class centrifuges. The MyFuge centrifuge is an efficient palm-size model.
• Some important safety features to look for:
  • Lid safety switch that prevents the device from operating unless the lid is locked
  • Lid lock that allows the device to be opened only after the rotor has stopped operating
  • Cool-Flow air flow design to prevent sample overheating
  • Clear lid for safe observation of samples
  • Automatic rotor imbalance detection feature which stops the run immediately when an imbalance is detected
  • Rotor lid with special aerosol-tight gaskets to prevent lab contamination.
  • Sturdy construction for safety and durability

To reduce the risk of rotor failures and ensure user safety, instruction manuals have to be carefully studied before operation. Rotors should be inspected regularly and retired when their lifetime has expired. The ideal option would be to purchase centrifuges from authorized dealers of laboratory equipment. Besides training on proper use, this would ensure timely maintenance support to keep medical centrifuges in excellent working condition.

Immunoassay analyzers are an indispensable in all types of laboratories, whether large hospital, clinic or physician office. Each of these settings has different requirements and therefore choosing the appropriate immunoassay analyzer would depend on their specific goals. For instance, drug assay as well as microbiology and diagnostic immunology can now be combined with the standard immunoassay.

Setting determines Choice

Large hospital laboratories benefit with random access analyzers with short turnaround time to first result.  So timeliness and the breadth of the menu would be critical factors to consider. Commercial laboratories, on the other hand, may regard thoroughput or volume of work as the most important consideration. Smaller laboratories may consider space as their priority and consider compact systems.

Accuracy is Crucial

For medical labs, clinical and technical factors such as accuracy, precision, sensitivity and range dynamics are crucial. The reason is obvious – poor or erroneous performance of immunoassays jeopardizes diagnosis and patient safety, and thereby increases physician risk.

Two Smart Options

There are many automated random-access immunoassay systems in the market and choosing the right one is often a complex task. The Bayer ADVIA Centaur from Siemens Medical Solutions Diagnostics is extremely popular for its ability to meet the growing needs of present-day hospitals and clinical labs. It comes with a comprehensive testing menu for infectious diseases, thyroid, fertility and anemia, as well as assays for cancer makers, cardiac analysis, allergy testing and therapeutic drug monitoring. It provides optimal productivity, flexibility and precision for successful workload management.

For labs with budget limitations, the Mini VIDAS, a multiparametric immunoassay product from Bio Merieux, fits the bill. This fully automated immunoassay analyzer is available recertified with leading lab equipment suppliers. A compact model with a built-in computer, keypad, and printer, the Mini VIDAS needs only one-point recalibration every 14 days and involves minimal maintenance.

Laboratory tests that require high accuracy and precise weighing are best performed using analytical balances. Electronic analytical balances have replaced many other types in modern laboratories as they are highly sensitive to factors such as pressure, temperature, local gravitational field, humidity, ventilation and vibration currents, and so on.

Points to Consider when Choosing an Analytical Balance

Though the analytical balances are simple and easy to use, there are many factors that need to be considered when selecting one for your lab. The most important is reliable measurement. The productivity of the lab depends upon the results that the analytical balance generates. Precision reduces lab measurement risks. Selecting a suitable balance requires an understanding of how the balance works, the factors that affect balance reading, and most important, the need for ongoing checks and calibration.

The lab should first define an acceptable weighing uncertainty for the processes that it undertakes and then use this to define the required precision. The analytical balance that it purchases should meet this definition. Other important factors in determining choice:

• Easy access weighing chamber to facilitate ease of use and operation
• Ability to enter data on sample identity
• Color screen (to minimize reading errors)
• Built-in applications
• Multiple interface options for open-architecture connectivity
• Protection against external influences
• Corrosion defense
• User convenience and safety
• Software capabilities, including user guide
• Internal calibration capability
• Spare parts, warranty and service

The Ohaus Adventurer Pro 2100g x 0.1g Balance – in a Class of its Own

Meeting all these requirements and more is the compact Ohaus Adventurer Pro 2100g x 0.1g. Considered the industry’s most versatile balance, it counts, sums, holds and provides traceable results. It features:

• Easy access ensured with a frameless Draftshield featuring readily removable doors
• Stainless steel bottom for fast and easy cleaning
• SmarText™ Software to guide users through balance use and setup
• QuadraStance™ Design for superior weighing stability on any surface
• Option for weighing accuracy with InCal™ internal calibration
• Optional factory installed USB or second RS232 interface to allow connection to multiple peripherals

Purchasing your Ohaus Adventurer Pro 2100g x 0.1g from an established and reliable supplier of laboratory equipment ensures proper warranty, spare parts, and service.

Blood gas analyzers measure partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide, pH, bicarbonate, oxygen saturation and oxygen content in the blood. Toxic gases such as carbon monoxide can also be discovered through arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis.

Physicians use ABG tests to check for acute breathing difficulties, asthma, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); how effective lung disease treatment is; patient oxygen requirements; measurement of acid-base level in patients suffering from heart or kidney failure, unrestrained diabetes, and other conditions.

Widely used in hospitals and critical care facilities, this medical lab equipment is now finding use in sports, especially in training programs for athletes and rowers. Using just a small blood sample from an artery at the wrist or groin or even the earlobe, blood gas analyzers can provide valuable information and make a contribution to the individual’s training and performance. For instance, if the person displays breathing problems or breathlessness, a blood gas test can help detect respiratory difficulties. Measuring the levels of bicarbonate in rowers’ blood gives information on how rowers react to intense training.  Increase in bicarbonate levels means that the sportsperson has a better ability to stave off acidic muscular conditions during high-intensity exercise. It is the build up of acid inside the muscle cells that leads to fatigue. So the information on the bicarbonate level that a blood gas analyzer is extremely useful when it comes to helping athletes and rowers improve performance.

Will the blood gas analyzer contribute to a winning athletic or rowing team performance in the 2012 London Olympics?

Laboratories all over the world are looking for energy-efficient, environment-friendly solutions. Going by a few pointers can reduce your environmental impact and also improve your bottom line.

• Buy laboratory equipment that is energy-efficient. Whether you are purchasing centrifuges, analyzers, spectrophotometer or refrigerators, make sure that you go for powerful technology that uses less energy, emits less heat and works quietly.
• Go for products that are low in toxicity.
• Purchasing recertified lab equipment is a good way to save resources as well as money.
• If you have a small or medium-size lab, purchase space-saving energy-efficient laboratory devices.
• Clinical lab waste can include blood, human cells, live cultures, and much more. Disposing of such lab waste properly is necessary to prevent environmental hazards. Invest in medical equipment that is efficient and is built to avoid leaks and spillage. Segregate waste according to type – chemicals, contaminated substances microbial, glass and so on – and dispose of it using standard procedures.
• Purchase whatever you can in bulk (for instance, accessories) to reduce waste packaging. Some vendors even take back packaging material.
• Consolidate shipments from your lab equipment supplier. This will also reduce packaging material as well as transportation cost.

Find a reliable laboratory equipment dealer to partner with. Look for competitive prices and timely service support.

The chemical analysis of urine is a crucial test regardless of the type of disease involved. Clinical labs use urine strips for general screening in routine examination, studies of the distribution and causes of disease frequency in human populations and to control health problems, early identification of pathologic issues, and monitoring of treatment. Currently, labs perform urine analysis using reagent test strips. The best option for labs of all sizes is to rely on an established clinical laboratory equipment supplier for their reagent strip requirements.

Screening for Various Tests

The reagent strip itself is a slim band of paper saturated with various chemical indicators for different substances at various points on the strip. Screening tests on a strip would include pH, specific gravity, protein, glucose, ketones, bilirubin, blood, nitrites, urobilinogen, leukocytes, urobilinogen, blood and ascorbic acid. Patients can also be given test strips for diabetic self-monitoring.

Efficient Use for Reliable Results

The process of urine examination involves the screening of the test strip and, if relevant, the examination of the sediment under a microscope. To ensure early detection of disease, manufacturers of quality reagent strips strive to provide a product that offers accurate results within as little time as one minute.

Efficient use of urinalysis strips is ensured with

• Defining optimal storage time and temperature

• Defining the proper procedure on the use of the strips

• Description of the chemical reaction and interpretation of results

• Identifying procedures that will confirm accuracy of results

Reagent strips can provide accurate results only if they are properly handled and stored in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. They should not be exposed to moisture or direct sunlight and must not be contaminated by human hand or other surfaces. Expiration dates should be routinely checked. Reagent strips should also be periodically tested with urine controls.

Leading laboratory equipment dealers supply a wide range of urine strips, controls and consumables to meet the requirements of physicians’ offices and clinical labs. Relying on an established supplier would ensure quality CLIA-waived reagent strips in convenient packs and kits at the best prices.

Clinical labs now play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Advanced technology and full automated laboratory equipment go a long way in helping labs fulfill their tasks.

Many Benefits

Automation reduces errors and delivers properly checked results in reduced turnaround time. This is crucial in the clinical test process as it determines diagnosis and treatment. Workflow efficiency and productivity in labs of all sizes have been ensured with the use of automated devices.

Lab automation is one way of tackling the shortage of lab personnel. At the same time, automating even simple tasks can free up researchers and lab technicians for more skill-demanding work.

Washing and rinsing is also a mundane and tedious task. To overcome this issue, advanced automated systems are designed to even wash automatically.

Chem Well-T – Model Fully Automated Random Access Analyzer

A fully automated, random access analyzer for biochemistry and immuno-turbidimetric assays, Chem Well-T from Awareness Technology is a model automated unit. It is a PC-controlled open system ideal for a small lab environment. Designed to offer quality, speed, and economy, this unit comes with a wide array range of advanced features

• Cuvettes are easy to load and unload and reusable after washing
• Cuvettes automatically glide through the optical system for endpoint and kinetic reading.
• 8 strips of 5 cuvettes each allow 40 reactions without intervention
• Detects liquid surface
• Measures remaining volume
• Retracts safely if probe contacts an obstacle
• Washes automatically
• Step-by-step user guide with colorful graphics
• Calculates and edits curves for a wide variety of endpoint and kinetic assays.
• Full QC package with tracking options for calibrators and controls.
• Automatic system checks and error messages

Offering all the benefits of a fully automated clinical lab device, the Chem Well-T sets the standard for automated, random access analyzers. It comes with a one year warranty. Purchase from an established laboratory equipment supplier for the best price and service arrangements. Installation and training is included in the package.

Needle-point injuries are a common risk in healthcare-related professions and occur when a caregiver get inadvertently pricked or pierced by a needle that was used on a patient with a transmissible disease. Conversely, patients are affected if the healthcare worker has a blood borne disease. Studies show that the incidence of needle-stick injuries is quite high with over one million cases reported worldwide every year. The risk of transmitting infections such as hepatitis C or H.I.V. via needle point injury is quite high.

Protection with an Efficient Blood Collection Set

One obvious way of minimizing this risk is by using a safe blood collection set. Take the Greiner Winged Safety Blood Collection Set. It is specially designed with a safety mechanism that protects blood collection personnel as well as patients. The needle comes with a robust plastic housing and is hinge-attached to the needle hub. The protective case does not interfere with needle use. The safety mechanism activates needle protection as soon as the needle is removed from the vein. The device’s translucent shield is pulled over the cannula to completely isolate it. A clicking sound indicates that the cannula is in place. Thus needle-point risk is efficiently minimized.

Flexible and Reliable Solution

The Greiner Winged Safety Blood Collection Set is OSHA-compliant. It is fast proving to be a safer alternative to conventional blood collection sets. Besides easy handling, this blood collection device comes with flexible wings that provide a secure grip. The sets are available as 1000 per case with leading medical lab equipment dealers.

Downsizing of clinical lab budgets has increased the demand for refurbished lab instruments and devices. Purchasing used devices rather than new is a cost-effective option, but feasible only if you tread carefully. Laboratory equipment is meant to ensure accurate and timely results for diagnosis and proper patient care. Many vendors offer refurbished equipment to meet the requirements of small and medium-sized labs. The refurbishment process usually involves a complete dismantling of the equipment. Parts are repaired, replaced if necessary and cleaned. Once the equipment is recertified, it is put up for sale.

Choosing the Right Vendor

It’s important to be discerning when you choose your recertified lab device supplier. Things to watch out for:

How the refurbishing is done: Check whether the refurbishment has been carried out by factory-trained technicians to meet original manufacturer specifications. Are the replaced parts sourced directly from the manufacturers? Are upgrades and services available?

Buy a quality product: Make sure that the equipment you buy is a top brand. With a product from a leading manufacturer, you can be sure of getting spares and consumables. Moreover, don’t go in for a product just because it comes at a lower price. It’s more important to verify if it has all the features you are looking for.

Check documentation: The vendor should be able to supply you with industry and quality certifications, insurance and warranty details, and other relevant documents for the refurbished clinical lab equipment.

Ensure timely post-sales service is available: Timely inspections, testing and repair are important for any type of equipment – old or new. So make sure that you vendor offers prompt and efficient post-sales maintenance service.

Invest Wisely

Your resources are precious, so invest them wisely. Do some thorough research before you team up with a vendor of recertified lab equipment. Reliability, productivity and durability are qualities you should be looking for when you purchases used devices.

The bottom line: exercise caution when you invest in recertified equipment for your lab.

The diagnosis and treatment of disease depends on the information that clinical laboratory tests provide. Chemistry analyzers enable several types of tests − from routine, STAT, urine and homogenous immunoassays to esoteric chemistries and tests for therapeutic drug monitoring. They are a vital piece of laboratory equipment in many clinical settings.

If you are buying a chemistry analyzer for your lab, look for one that’s fully automated and can perform a wide range of tests. Consider its diagnostic value, clinical efficiency and economic efficacy. The diagnostic value depends on the specificity and sensitivity of the test as well as the frequency of the condition for which the test is carried out. When you’re looking at the clinical efficiency of the device, consider the accuracy of the results and how well they can influence the treatment decision. Finally, economic efficiency can be measured in terms of the device’s ability to deliver the required results at the lowest possible cost.

There are several automated chemistry analyzers in the market. One that fulfils all of the above-mentioned specifications is the Olympus AU400 chemistry analyzer. This fully automated, open system offers a broad test menu which includes homogeneous immunoassays for protein analytes such as apolipoproteins, immunoglobulin, and more.
It offers 400 photometric tests plus 400 ISE tests per hour, making it highly suitable for use in mid-volume laboratories. With proven accuracy capabilities, this Olympus chemistry analyzer is user-friendly and allows easy result tracking.

Bottom line: quick, reportable, accurate results, cost effective operation.

Buying the Olympus AU400 from a reliable online medical equipment dealer ensures a competitive price and speedy delivery.