Coaguchek XS Plus - Stroke Protocol

I tried to do something similar for the I-Stat PT/INR but our sales rep. cautioned me against it. Virtually all (if not all) POC PT/INR's (including the CoaguChek) are only indicated for the monitoring of oral anticoagulants. So, using the CoaguChek to see if a patient is a candidate for TPA would be off-label use. That makes the test high complexity, and opens up a whole list of new regulations.

I'm waiting to see if somebody releases a meter suited for the stroke protocol. Until then, we are waiting on the lab.  

Correct me if I am wrong, but I think the Accreva Hemochron Elite does not have this limitation.

Thanks for the information Steven, looks like you are right. I did a little research and while there nothing written expressly in the intended use (go figure), I did find a brochure that mentions it's role in the stroke protocol. Hope I don't get in trouble and I'm not advocating/advertising for Accriva, but here is a link to that brochure: http://www.accriva.com/uploads/literature/msig0002_0712.pdfhttp://www.accriva.com/uploads/literature/msig0002_0712.pdf

I've been thinking about making a switch to the HemoChron from the I-Stat. This gives me another reason to make the switch.

We are looking to use the Signature Elite for stroke for both PT and PTT but will use the citrate tube option.