The HemoCue Hb 201 DM analyzer requires daily (every 24 hours) liquid quality control (QC) testing prior to patient testing. This QC test ensures the accuracy of the HemoCue analyzer. Liquid QC comes in two levels: R&D GLU/HGB Control Level 1 (low) and R&D GLU/HGB Control Level 2 (high). QC solution storage requires the solutions are kept at room temperature (15°-30°C) or refrigerated (2°-8°C). A temperature log must be kept in the same area where solutions are stored. QC solutions are good for up to 30 days once opened and stored either at room temperature or refrigerated. POCT staff distributes new solutions quarterly. Solutions are good for the date range marked on vials. Date bottles upon opening with open date and expiration date. If additional QC solution is needed, please notify POCT Services.
The HemoCue Hb 201 DM analyzer also has an Internal Electronic Quality Control (EQC) that is performed automatically each time the device is turned on. This “Self-Test” verifies the performance of the optronic unit of the analyzer. This test is performed every eighth hour if the analyzer remains powered on. The results of the “Self-Test” is stored as an EQC.