Selection, Upgrade, and Workflow Optimization
For laboratories with low daily workload and wide clinical demand, XN-1000 is a suitable starting point for entering fully automated hematology analysis. It has onboard decision rules, supports user-defined rerun/flex, and can automatically trigger retesting or add items based on initial inspection results. This rule engine helps reduce manual intervention and improve the efficiency of handling abnormal samples. XN-1000 can also add optional applications according to clinical needs, such as PLT-F, XN-BF, or RET. When the workload increases, XN-1000 can be upgraded to XN-2000, adding a second analysis module to achieve higher throughput and automatic load balancing.
For laboratories with high workload or requiring higher availability, the dual module architecture of XN-2000 has more advantages. Dual modules can process samples simultaneously, reducing turnover time; Automatic load balancing can avoid single module overload; Reagent sharing can reduce the frequency of reagent replacement and human operation differences. The dual module co primary design also means that both modules can jointly undertake routine testing, providing some redundancy in case of maintenance or failure. For laboratories with strong diagnostic and therapeutic needs for blood tumors, transplantation, anemia, and thrombotic diseases, the XN-20 module's capabilities such as WPC, HPC, RET, PLT-F are more clinically valuable.
In method validation and daily operation, attention should be paid to the sample size, channel combination, and reporting parameters of different modes. For example, the sample volume of whole blood mode and pre dilution mode is different, and the sample processing logic of body fluid mode and HPC mode is also different. Laboratories should establish standard operating procedures based on sample types, blood collection vessel specifications, and clinical needs. For projects that require HPC, it is necessary to confirm the software activation status, whether the sample size meets 190 μ L, and whether the quality control covers the corresponding parameters. For BF mode, it should be confirmed whether the sample type, collection container, and reporting parameters meet clinical requirements.
Engineering maintenance and troubleshooting ideas
The troubleshooting of XN series should revolve around five dimensions: "channel principle sample reagent quality control". If the WBC classification is abnormal, first observe whether the WDF, WPC, or WNR scatter plots are clearly clustered. If the scatter plot is blurred, overlapped, or exhibits abnormal tailing, the fluorescence reagent, sheath fluid, laser signal, flow chamber cleanliness, and sample status should be checked. If RBC, PLT-I, HCT are abnormal, impedance detection channels, sheath flow, sample clots, bubbles, and blockages should be checked. If HGB is abnormal, SLS cyanide free hemoglobin reagent, colorimetric cell, and sample hemolysis should be checked.
Scattering map is an important tool for obstacle removal. Abnormal distribution of NRBC, WBC, BASO, and other populations in the WNR channel may indicate an increase in nuclear red blood cells, abnormal white blood cells, or reagent issues. Abnormal populations such as NEUT, LYMPH, MONO, EO, BASO, IG in WDF channels may indicate an increase in immature granulocytes, abnormal lymphocytes, or sample interference. Abnormal lymphocytes, primitive cells, HPC and other areas in the WPC channel should be reviewed in combination with clinical and microscopic examination. Abnormal distribution of RET, IRF, LFR, MFR, and HFR in the RET channel can indicate active erythropoiesis or therapeutic response. Abnormal IPF in the PLT-F channel can indicate the recovery or depletion of platelet production.
Insufficient sample size is a common but easily overlooked issue. Whole blood mode of 88 μ L, pre dilution of 70 μ L, body fluid of 88 μ L, HPC of 190 μ L. If the blood collection volume is insufficient, the sample tube selection is improper, or the mixing is insufficient, it may lead to low results, abnormal classification, or decreased repeatability. For HPC mode, a higher sample volume of 190 μ L is required, and special attention should be paid to the collection vessel capacity and sample quality. For body fluid samples, mucus, cell aggregation, and incompatible collection tubes should be avoided. For pre dilution mode, the dilution ratio and sample processing steps should be confirmed.
The management of reagents and consumables is equally crucial. Fluorescent flow channels are sensitive to reagent quality, bubbles, and contamination. After opening the bottle, the reagent should be stored according to the prescribed conditions to avoid expired use. Bubbles in the pipeline can affect the scattered light signal, leading to abnormal classification. Poor discharge of waste liquid may cause abnormal pressure, affecting sample aspiration and counting. Insufficient or contaminated sheath fluid can lead to poor focusing of the flow chamber and poor clustering of the scatter pattern. Engineers should regularly check the remaining amount of reagents, waste liquid tanks, pipeline connections, flow chamber cleanliness, and air filter status.