IFCC reference measurement procedure for substance concentration determination of total carbon dioxide in blood, plasma or serum

A reference measurement procedure for substance concentration determination of total CO, in blood, plasma (the anticoagulant is usually heparin) or serum is described. The document covers the principle of the method, the materials and equipment needed and essential aspects of the procedure. The substance concentration of total CO, in blood, plasma or serum is accurately determined and therefore this procedure is recommended for assigning reference values to reference materials and for blood gas quality assurance in laboratories and by manufacturers of blood gas equipment.