Evaluation of the Olympus Demand Chemistry Analyser
Author Information
Author(s): Susan B. Schotters, James H. McBride, Denis O. Rodgerson, Margaret H. McGinley, Marilyn Pisa
Primary Institution: UCLA School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The Olympus Demand analyser was evaluated for its cost-effectiveness and reliability as a primary instrument for enzyme analysis.
Conclusion
The Olympus Demand analyser proved to be precise and reliable, but it has significant limitations, particularly with bilirubin interference affecting certain measurements.
Supporting Evidence
- The Demand analyser was found to be precise and reliable.
- Cost savings were achieved by reducing reagent use and repeat analyses.
- Bilirubin interference was a significant technical problem.
- Electrolyte measurements showed instability in the electrodes.
- Technical support for the Demand was below industry standards.
Takeaway
The Olympus Demand analyser is a machine that helps test blood samples quickly, but it sometimes gives wrong results if there's too much bilirubin in the blood.
Methodology
The evaluation involved testing the analyser's precision, linearity, and correlation with another instrument (SMAC I) using various control materials and patient samples.
Potential Biases
Technical support for the Demand was less than the industry average, with difficulties in obtaining replacement parts.
Limitations
The analyser has issues with bilirubin interference affecting bicarbonate and creatinine measurements, slow turnaround times for urgent tests, and inadequate technical support.
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