An Improved Polarographic Method for Measuring Oxygen Tension in Whole Blood

Abstract

A new type of polarographic electrode (Clark) was found to provide a means of accurately and rapidly determining the O₂ tension of whole blood at all levels of Po₂. The electrode response is independent of ph, CO₂ tension and hematocrit. Temperature and pressure changes produce predictable linear variations in electrode response for any given oxygen tension. There were found to be occasional marked variations in calibration curves for unknown reasons. Thus, accuracy can only be assured by developing a calibration curve for each subject's blood. A simple system for calibration of the electrode in whole blood has been described. Submitted on June 14, 1957