VIA Blood Gas Analyzer

[NICU Mama]

I was wondering if any of your units use the VIA blood gas analyzer? The unit I used to work at did use it on all unstable vented babies, babies on the oscillator, and almost all 24 to 27 weekers who were going to require frequent ABG's. I liked using it because it was quick and easy to obtain an ABG and the results printed right there at the bedside and it would do it with minimal to no blood loss to the babies, which is especially good for the micro-preemies.

The unit I work at now does not have the VIA. In order to get in here, we need to research the product to make sure it's safe, accurate, doesn't put micro-clots into the babies, etc. Apparently, the company itself is difficult to work with and does not readily provide this information. Any insight or information any of you have on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

NICU Mama

[BittyBabyGrower, MSN, RN]

We use VIA and we have seen a trend in some of the kids having microthrombi, but no one has quite put two and two together yet. I think that it is because it doesn't clear the line completely. It is good in that there is no blood loss for ABG, hct and lytes.

We have found the company very difficult to work with and reps are hard to find and get to come in for problems.