Laboratory Test Reference Guide

Intraosseous samples are usually tested on the bedside using handheld point-of-care devices due to its urgency and the nature of the sample. This type of sample is NOT to be processed/validated for processing in a haematology analyser. It is important that the type of sample must be clearly written on the request form if a sample is to be sent to the laboratory to be identified properly. A handheld device "Haemocue" is used to obtain the reported haemoglobin from intraosseous sample.

Note: Reference range is not set for intraosseous samples. Intraosseous haemoglobin is reported with peripheral blood reference range to be used as a guide. Please treat results with caution. It is required that a peripheral blood sample for CBC must be sent as soon as possible to confirm.

The meaning of intraosseous (IO) is ‘within the bone’. The technique of intraosseous (IO) access involves inserting a needle into the bone marrow cavity for the purpose of administering fluids and/or drugs. Under circumstances of emergency resuscitation it is essential to obtain blood for haematological and biochemical analysis although this may prove difficult in circumstances of cardiovascular collapse, especially in babies and small children. Where an IO cannula has been sited and is the only available access it is advantageous if blood to be drawn from this site. Note that clinicians must send a venous collected blood for CBC confirmation once able to do so.

Interpret with caution.

Adults:         1 mL EDTA sample

Pediatrics:   300 uL EDTA sample