Clinical Instrumentation Refresher Series:

Ion Selective Electrodes

William R. Hliwa

Western New York Microcomputer, Inc.
Med TechNet Online Services

April 1998

(Users may earn credits for this talk through April 2000)

Abstract

Ion selective electrodes are used in a myriad of clinical laboratory procedures: both as independent measuring systems and as integrated components of larger automated instruments. As a laboratorian, an understanding of the basic physical principles involved are an important part of using these devices intelligently, and troubleshooting problems and interferences. Most ion selective electrodes are a form of potentiometry; this talk will study the underlying electrochemical principles of this form of analysis. Topics include: terminology, electrical measurements, the Nernst equation, reference electrodes, glass membrane theory, pH measurements and other types of electrode design.

LEVEL: BASIC

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this presentation the participant will be able to do the following:

Identify the electrochemical classification of Ion Selective Electrodes.
Differentiate the function of "voltmeters" and "ammeters".
Name and describe the two major types of electrochemical cells.
Identify the polarity of a SHE (standard hydrogen electrode), given a connected half-cell.
Given two fully-described half-cells, calculate a resulting E_cell potential.
List at least one important characteristic of a reference electrode..
Understand the "glass membrane" theory for electrodes.
Explain the proper relationship between a solution under test and a combination electrode, in pH measurements.
Identify parts of a combination pH electrode.
Describe the procedure for a "precision" pH calibration.
Name two other types of electrode design (in addition to glass electrodes).
Understand "selectivity constants" in the context of ion selective electrodes.

P.A.C.E. Credits and Cost

Successful completion (by electronic post-quiz) will earn participants 3.0 Contact Hours of P.A.C.E. credit.

This is a FREE presentation for Med TechNet subscribers; others: $29.00 (US Dollars)

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