i-STAT EC8+ cartridges The i-stat Hematocrit (Hct) is intended for use in the in vitro quantification of packed red blood cell volume in arterial, venous, or capillary whole blood. Hematocrit is a key indicator of the body's state of hydration, anemia, or severe blood loss, as well as the blood's ability to transport oxygen.

Abbott has determined that there is a dependence of the i-STAT Hct assay on the vertical pitch angle of the i-STAT Analyzer during the blood analysis cycle.

The firm, Abbott Point of Care, sent an "Urgent Field Safety Notice Product Recall" letter dated January 2010 to the customers. Safety Alert /Product Recall letters were also sent by Federal Express commencing on February 5, 2010. The letter describes the product, problem and the action to be taken by the customers. The customers were instructed to replace the i-STAT Hematocrit/HCT and Calculated Hemoglobin/HB /Cartridge and Test Information (CT) Sheet found in their i-STAT System manual with those included in the mailing , and to provide a copy of the letter another facility, if they have forwarded any cartridges. If you should have any questions regarding this information, please contact Abbott Point of Care Technical Support at 800-366-8020 or your Abbott Point of Care representative.