[Point-of-care blood gas analysis as a tool for COVID-19 patients: a prehospital setting experience.]
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Updated: Oct 9, 2025

Expired CO2 Measurement in Intubated or Spontaneously Breathing Patients from the Emergency Department
Published on: January 29, 2011
Silvia Cini1, Asia Urbanelli2, Sara Montemerani3
1Infermiere, Centrale operativa 118 Arezzo, Azienda USL Toscana Sud Est.
Abstract:
Portable blood gas analyzers are intended for blood Point-of-care testing (POCT); they make it possible to perform the examination directly at the patient's bed. During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, this device proved useful in emergency medical service for the early assessment of respiratory distress, allowing the appropriate care level to be determined for each patient. 25 cases of covid-19 positive patients in the province of Arezzo were analyzed; POCT blood gas analysis made it possible to evaluate and treat at home about half of the patients (52%) and to admit the others directly to the most appropriate ward. However, some critical issues were found; the limited sample size suggest further research to assess the actual impact of this technology.
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