A comparison of Capillary Blood Gas with Transcutaneous Blood Gas - V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Transcutaneous blood gas (TCBG) analysis: Are transcutaneous blood gases a reliable alternative to capillary blood gas sampling, in the context of Long Term Oxygen Therapy Assessment (LTOT) adults, in a community setting?
IRAS ID
305136
Contact name
Mangalaram Sadhasivam
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
City St George's, University of London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
The Home Oxygen Service – Assessment and Review (HOS-AR) is provided to people in need of home oxygen. Long term oxygen therapy (LTOT)is prescribed based on blood gas analysis results. The arteriolised capillary blood sample is taken from ear lobe using a lancet or scalpel. Thus obtained blood sample is analysed using the i-STAT portable, handheld device. Even though the i-STAT is used as standard practice, there are challenges involved in obtaining a capillary sample. These challenges include reliance on the clinician’s level of experience and skill of using the i-STAT, and the patient’s level of co-operation. With consideration for the clinical risks, potential patient and clinician anxiety, and resource implications of obtaining capillary blood samples, the TCM5 FLEX may be a feasible alternative in adults in the community setting.This research study aims to test the reliability of the TCM5 FLEX in measuring transcutaneous blood gas (TCBG) when compared to measuring arteriolised capillary blood gas in adult patients requiring LTOT in the community. The study will take place within HOS-AR services delivered by NELFT. All participants attending oxygen clinic and requiring blood gas assessment will be invited to participate in the study. Participants will undertake blood gas analysis by the available clinician. All study procedures will take place during routine appointments, which involves capillary blood gas analysis as standard. The TCM 5-Flex analyser will be used to obtain blood gas reading (tcpO2 and tcpCO2) from forehead using a transcutaneous sensor. The reading is continuous and real time with the actual reading taken after 10 minutes as per the manufacturer’s guidance. The blood gas results obtained transcutaneously and through capillary sample will be compared and analysed for reliability. The study will run for a year to collect enough sample.
REC name
Wales REC 5
REC reference
22/WA/0170
Date of REC Opinion
23 Jun 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion