Dipstick testing of Platelets: When to Repeat

[HCantrell]

We are re-visiting our platelet dipstick testing to see if we can stream line our workflows. Currently, once we test the platelet, the product is Ok to issue for four hours. After four hours, we have to re-test.

When we validated the dipsticks, we only tested every 24 hours, so we selected four hours because that was in the literature at the time. No other reason than that.

We are just wondering what sort of shelf life other facilities are using for their test results before the product has to be re-tested. I'm trying to decide if I really want to mess with re-validating to prove that 8 hours is as safe as 4 hours, or if I even have to.

[L106]

What does the manufacturer recommend?