For Medical ProfessionalsThe underlying technology of the CardioChek PA System employs innovative concepts to emulate the complex chemical analysis, sample preparation and measurement methods of clinical labs in a simple format suitable for untrained operators.
A precise volume of whole blood is dispensed on to the application window of a PTS Panels Test Strip that has been inserted into a CardioChek PA analyzer.
Red cells and other non-plasma components are removed from the plasma. The plasma reacts in a precisely controlled manner with a series of chemically impregnated membranes, ultimately producing a color change in the final membrane layer. The analyzer measures the color intensity from the color spectral profile and compares to lot-specific calibration information contained in the MEMo Chip to calculate an accurate result. The analyzer then displays the result, simultaneously triggers a printout (if the dedicated printer is attached), and stores the test information in memory for later recall.
CardioChek PA
AnalyzerThe CardioChek PA is a state-of-the-art, hand-held, battery-operated, software-driven reflectance spectrophotometer.
PTS Panels Test Strips are composed of several layers of reagent-impregnated membranes sandwiched together in a plastic carrier. Each membrane layer performs specific functions to process and facilitate chemical reactions. The dry phase chemistry membranes are typically stable at room temperatures for 18 to 24 months.
MEMo Chips are individualized for each lot of PTS Panels Test Strips and contain calibration settings, expiration dating and other information that calibrates the CardioChek PA analyzer to every strip it "reads." A MEMo Chip is packaged with every vial of strips to ensure accurate calibration specific to each lot of strips.
Efficiency: In about two minutes - in an exam room, waiting room or office - nurses or technicians with a hand-held CardioChek PA can obtain results from a quick and easy fingerstick. No blood tube draw. No centrifugation or shipping. No waiting for the lab. No re-charting. No telephone calls to give the patient results.
Effectiveness: Accurate results are in the chart for the physician-patient encounter. Deal immediately with the situation. Counsel the patient face-to-face with immediate test results.
Economy: Increase Revenues - Covered by Medicare and most carriers. Reduce Costs - Free up nursing and staff time.