[Comparison between T-connecter and three-way stopcock as a portal for obtaining samples from indwelling catheter]

The accuracy of measurements on a sample obtained via either T-connecter or three-way stopcock connected directly with an indwelling catheter was comparatively evaluated. The sample was obtained through them after drawing glucose standard fluid (100 mg.dl-1) into a catheter which was primed with saline. The influence of sample volume and discarded volume on the glucose concentration in the sample was investigated, respectively. The results showed that both sample volume and discarded volume required smaller amount with a T-connecter than with a three-way stopcock to obtain more accurate measurements. The results also suggested that remaining discard aliquot in the connecting port of the three-way stopcock might influence the accuracy of the obtained sample when the sample volume was small.