The Walton Centre is the only specialist neuro-sciences NHS Trust in the UK.

Our specialist staff offer a world class service in diagnosing and treating injuries and illnesses affecting the brain, spine and peripheral nerves and muscles; and in helping people suffering from long term neurological conditions.

The requirement is for a clinical chemistry analyser for the Buxton Labs situated in the main Walton Centre Building. The contract will be for a period of 7 years.

The analyser must have fully validated methods for the following analytes over a clinically relevant concentration range:

— Serum albumin,

— Serum total protein,

— Serum/plasma glucose,

— Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein,

— CSF glucose,

— CSF lactate.

If all of these tests are not available as standard reagents, an alternative approach must be given. For example, there may be the option of “open channels” that allow other reagents to be used.

Assay traceability and proven good external quality assurance (EQA) performance would need to be demonstrated.

The system must also be able to provide a haemolysis, icteric, lipaemic (HIL) index.