Refrigerator monitoring
We have several small reagent refrigerators in different locations (Cath Lab, ED, Urgent Care), and the temperature monitoring has been a struggle.
The refrigerators are small (dorm sized), but are “laboratory grade”. We have Min/Max thermometers for each, and ask the staff to record daily readings.
We have a hard time maintaining accurate readings – first we thought it was the refrigerators, then we thought it was the thermometers. We have tried different models of both, and still have trouble.
We even have tried to use our hospital’s remote monitoring system with no success. For example, this morning one of our thermometers has a “min” temp of -12.1°C, but nothing was frozen.
What does everyone else do for reagent storage in different locations, and how do you manage temperatures?
Cindy Roller, MLT, LPN
University of Missouri Health Care
Point of Care Testing
Office: 573-884-0697
Fax: 573-884-4851
Cell: 573-864-1161
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Refrigerator units vary by the 3-M’s (manufacturer/make/model).
The best refrigerators will have a circulation fan to best control temperature gradients. Unfortunately, even with circulation fans, users run into problems
because the refrigerator contains too many items that restricts circulation.
Many refrigerators have the heat exchange coils in the side walls of the unit. Contact with the sidewall is colder than the ambient air temp. Avoid any contact
with any interior surface (top, bottom, back, side).
Problems with temps that exceed the high end allowable limits can usually be attributed to (but not limited to): door open too long, lack of enough content to
help retain internal temperature, not using a temperature probe immersed in glycerin. (Be sure your temp probe is not touching any interior surface of the refrigerator.
ThanksGreg!
I didn’t ask the question but appreciate your thorough response!
Sent via Groupsite Mobile.
Hi Cindy,
We use the same small dorm size refrigerators and have struggled as well. One of our facilities staff, who is a refrigerator expert, suggested we place freezer packs in the refrigerator to help it maintain a constant temperature even when no specimens are in the refrigerator. It has helped. We also use the MIN/MAX thermometers.