Table 4.

Issues that must be considered when selecting a point-of-care test

Ease of use

Accuracy

Low error rate (imprecision + bias)

Consumable need: strips, cassettes, cartridges, rotor system, etc.

Portability (handheld vs. bench top); different models may be appropriate for field vs. hospital settings

Power source (battery vs. mains)

Scalability

Processing time

Sample source and volume

Connectivity (e.g., Bluetooth integration)

Ability for integration into electronic decision support systems

Possibility to do >1 test

Cost of the device and consumables