Influence of different heparin solutions upon blood gas analysis and biochemical values measured in plasma

Three types of heparin solutions and their effect on blood gas analysis were investigated in four series of dilutions. pCO2, bicarbonate and pH are related to changes caused by the addition of heparin solution to the sample. These changes may simulate respiratory compensation of a metabolic acidosis. The effects of addition of different volumes and types of heparin solution were investigated. The accuracy of other routine biochemical values were also assessed in plasma and compared with serum. We found significant differences in lactate dehydrogenase, inorganic phosphorus and total protein results. This may be due to the clotting process in the serum samples.