Correct handling of concentration kit components, including syringes, the blue cap, and the black screw, ensures accurate results during Legionella testing. Below is a detailed guide for each part, including potential issues and solutions.
Syringe Use and Handling
1. Blue Syringe
Preventing Air Entry
To prevent air from entering the test system, make sure to fully insert the Blue Syringe into the Blue Port. Air bubbles can interfere with the accuracy of your results, so it's essential to avoid introducing any when using the Blue Syringe.
Steps to Prevent Air Entry:
- Insert the Blue Syringe Fully: Ensure the syringe is securely connected to the Blue Port. This creates an airtight seal, which helps prevent air from entering the sample.
- Push the Plunger Down Completely: Press the plunger all the way past the resistance point to the bottom, which helps remove any air within the syringe.
- Stop at the First Point When Moving Up: When you pull the plunger up, stop once it reaches the first marked point on the syringe. Pulling the plunger up too far could draw air into the system.
Frozen Syringe Handling
If bubbles form from freezing, flick the syringe near the blue cap three times to bring bubbles to the tip. Insert the syringe into the port with air at the tip.
What to Do if You Move the Plunger More than 10 Times?
If you accidentally move the Blue Syringe plunger up and down more than 10 times, don’t worry—this won’t affect your results. Just remember:
- Minimum: You need at least 10 full pulses (one pulse = one full up-and-down motion).
- End Position: Always finish with the plunger in the down position.
2. White Syringe
What to Do if You Accidentally Remove the White Syringe?
If the White Syringe is accidentally removed during the test, do not reinsert it, as doing so could interfere with test results.
3. Yellow Syringe
What Happens if I Set the Dial Incorrectly?
Correct Dial Position Before Adding Water: Always set the dial to the circle position before introducing water. This setting prepares the test system to accurately detect and process the sample.
FAQ: I Forgot to Set the Dial to the Circle Position Before Adding Water. Can I Move the Dial and Continue?
- Unfortunately, if you added water while the dial was in the start (.) position (incorrect setting), the kit is now unusable.
- IMPORTANT: Moving the dial to the circle position afterward will not correct this error and may result in a false negative. For accurate results, you will need to start with a new kit, making sure to set the dial to the circle position before adding water.
Blue Cap Placement
Proper insertion of the blue cap is essential for successful concentration. Here’s what to do if issues arise:
Blue Cap Not Present: If the blue cap is missing after pressing the blue button (or if the button was already depressed), restart the procedure with a new concentration kit. Customers with a spare blue cap can carefully place it in the center well.
Dislodged Blue Cap: If the cap bounces out, retrieve it, remove the cartridge, and manually insert it into the center well. Ensure the sample is not spilled in the process.
Note: Missing or improperly inserted blue caps can result in suppressed results, so ensure the cap is securely placed before proceeding.
Black Screw Handling
The black screw secures the components during the concentration procedure. Occasionally, the nut in the black port may dislodge, which could interfere with dispensing:
Loose Nut: If the nut becomes loose while turning the black screw, press it back into place before continuing. Turn the screw until it stops. This will help ensure accurate dispensing and minimize air bubbles in the cartridge.
Note: After dispensing, inspect the cartridge to ensure the full volume has been dispensed with minimal air bubbles at the top of the tube.
Cartridge Removal
If the cartridge is challenging to remove, use a tool as leverage to remove the cartridge. If the cartridge lid breaks off, you will need to use a tool to remove the cartridge and and then you can reattach the lid before continuing with testing.