ACE Alera

1. ACE Alera

2. Objectives List six universal lab safety precautions recommended by the CDC. Describe and demonstrate the proper technique for pipetting. Explain the procedure for preparing reagents, calibrators, controls and specimen samples. Identify key components of the ACE analyzer and ISE modules and explain their purpose. Identify each ACE consumable and its use. Describe the role of the function keys when operating the ACE system.

3. Objectives Perform the four activities required for the ACE system daily start-up. Create QC, calibration and patient requisitions. Place individual sample cups and tubes and create loadlists for running batches of samples. Examine patient reports to determine if the results are possible and if necessary corrective actions are required. Recognize �flags� noted on a QC report and know basic troubleshooting actions. Complete daily shutdown activities.

4. Objectives List the different malfunctions that one might experience during operation. List the possible causes for malfunctions and the recommended corrective action. Identify the five-step process to help identify and resolve quality control problems.

5. Basic Lab Safety All blood products treated as potentially infectious Use universal precautions Never pipette by mouth Wear protective gloves Wear a lab coat, gown or smock Wash hands after glove removal Never eat, drink or smoke in a laboratory work area Use a form of face protection, such as goggles, face shield or mask

6. Pipetting Techniques Pipetting is the act of transferring a specific volume of liquid to a vessel or container using a pipette. Types of pipettes Volumetric Delivers only one specified volume of liquid Has an etched graduation mark DO NOT blow out excess liquid Calibrators and controls Serologic

7. Types of Pipettes Volumetric Serologic

8. Reagent Preparation Ready to use, liquid form Package insert details information regarding: Preparation and storage Room Temp (albumin, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, calium, creatinine, magnesium, total protein, ISE calibrators A and B, ISE Cleaning and Conditioning, ISE wash, System Diluent, reference Electrode Solution) Refrigerated( ALT, AST, CO2, Alkaline Phosphatase, Amylase, Cholesterol, Creatinine Kinase, GGT, Glucose and many more)

9. Reagent Preparation On a bottle is opened Date and time Initials Check for bubbles. If bubbles present, use a transfer pipette to remove Place an evap-cap on the top of reagent container Bottle is then placed anywhere in the refrigerated compartment Once the instrument door is closed, the ACE will read the dot codes on the bottle of the reagent to determine expiration dates and stability

10. Important reminder Fresh reagents require calibration GEMCAL QC verification Run 2 levels of control each day to verify acceptable system performance

11. Specimen Preparation All serum specimens should be allowed to fully clot for 30 minutes before centrifugation Glucose tests should be completed within 2 hours of sample collection unless the red blood cells were separated from the serum or plasma Specific requirements are listed in package insert

12. Interferences Visual exam should be performed on the serum or plasma to determine possible interferences A comment should be added to the patient requisition as to the condition present.