STLS

• Use the sterile transfer pipette provided in the CBNAAT kit to draw liquefied sample into the transfer pipette
  • The minimum amount to be loaded into the cartridge is 2 ml
  • Do not process the sample if there is insufficient volume
• Open the cartridge lid
• Transfer the sample into the open port (Figure 1) of the CBNAAT cartridge and dispense slowly to minimize the risk of aerosol formation

The CBNAAT system integrates and automates sample processing with amplification and detection of the target sequences

For sample processing, sample reagent is provided in CBNAAT kit, 8ml volume pack per each cartridge

• The sample reagent solution is clear but may range from colourless to golden yellow

Processing of clinical specimens should be performed as per laboratory biosafety standards

The CBNAAT module contains components that enable automated sample processing in the cartridge, and filling of the tube with the sample-reagent mixture for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), followed by PCR amplification and detection.

The structure of the CBNAAT module is described below and shown in Figure 1:

Image

Resources

The Cartridge-based Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (CBNAAT) files should be archived and saved to a CD or other appropriate external media (preferably an external drive), at least once a month to ensure that no test data are lost.

Archiving tests creates copies of the test data in “gxx” files. 

Importance of Archiving and Back-up 

Archiving allows you to:

1. Back-up data to ensure it will not be lost if the computer breaks down.

Monthly maintenance tasks of the CBNAAT instrument include:

Cleaning of the Cartridge Bay and Plunger Rod

The CBNAAT manufacturer recommends monthly cleaning of the cartridge bay and plunger rod. However, if the sample load is high, this task can be carried out on a weekly basis.

Cleaning of Module PCR Slot (Figure 1)

While using the CBNAAT machine in a laboratory setting, many different causes can lead to an error (indicated on-screen as ‘ERROR’, as in figure 1).

Figure 1: Window showing how to click on “Errors” to learn more about the issue

Error Message Categories

The errors are displayed by the instrument’s software to highlight various technical issues that disrupt the test process. They are grouped into five categories by the software:

This hardware problem occurs when a cartridge is stuck inside a CBNAAT module.

Causes

• Module mechanical malfunction during the test
• Electrical failure

Solutions for releasing a stuck cartridge

Solution 1: Verify that the module door is not open. Gently try to open the module door.

Solution 2: Try to remove the cartridge from the software.

Common hardware problems that can occur while using the CBNAAT machine and their recommended solutions are listed below.

The different meetings conducted at the Tuberculosis Units (TU) are: