Table 4 Summary of community paramedic comments pertaining to device preference
Preference | Comment |
|---|---|
i-STAT® (n = 11) | • i-STAT had less errors and easier to use, clean and do QC on. • Easier to use with fewer errors and less time commitment. • Compact and easy. • Ease of use. • Easy to use, uncomplicated, gives the same results as the epoc without the frustration, annoyance & hassle! • Less complicated, easy to clean, no moving parts. • More durable, wait time is after sample introduction, easier to introduce sample and place card in reader. • Easier to use overall, simple is better for continued device confidence, likely won’t require as much re-familiarization. • Felt sturdier. Easier to turn off. Quality control less time consuming. • Slightly easier to learn, handle, clean and use in different environments. • No answer entered. |
epoc® (n = 5) | • Would not have to be regulated for temperature, no extra cooler to carry around. • More reliable. • I feel like I understand the device better for both trouble shooting and pulling up previous results. • Versatility, no refrigeration of cartridges, and versatility of testing with just one cartridge. • Ease of use, more consistent with no errors, do not have to do daily testing and do not have to refrigerate test cards. |
No preference (n = 2) | • No answer entered. • No answer entered. |