Catalyst SmartQC: Ensuring Precision in Veterinary Diagnostics

Published: 20 Jun 2025

Precision and dependability are key in veterinary diagnostics. Quality Control for Catalysts SmartQC is a quality control system that serves to confirm that the Chemistry Analyzers, Catalyst One and Catalyst Dx are operating at their best.

This article describes the quality control system’s purpose, where and how to use it, why to use it, and best practices.

Table of Content

What is Catalyst SmartQC?
When Should Catalyst SmartQC Be Used?
How to Run Catalyst SmartQC
Understanding Catalyst SmartQC Results
Best Practices for Storage and Handling
Conclusion

What is Catalyst SmartQC?

The quality control material, Catalyst SmartQC, contains a Catalyst CLIP and a reagent pack. Together, these components check the performance of Catalyst analyzers. They allow the user to determine, with confidence, whether the analyzer is working perfectly, is in need of re-calibration, or has failed altogether. If the analyzer passes the smart check, then it will pass the more routine checks built into the tests themselves.

When Should Catalyst SmartQC Be Used?

For maintaining analyzer efficiency, run Catalyst SmartQC:

Monthly, after cleaning the analyzer’s internal components.
During installation, to confirm proper setup.
After relocation, ensuring stability after movement.

How to Run Catalyst SmartQC

Executing Catalyst SmartQC is a simple procedure:

Clean the internal parts of the analyzer.
Place the Catalyst SmartQC materials into the analyzer.
Follow the directions on the IDEXX VetLab Station’s screen.
Collect the results, which will be ready in a matter of minutes.

Understanding Catalyst SmartQC Results

The system offers two potential outcomes:

Optimal Analyzer Performance: Confirms that the analyzer is working as it should.
Not Optimal Analyzer Performance: Indicates there’s something to check; if it’s still acting funny after a second look, it’s time to call for tech support.

Best Practices for Storage and Handling

For accurate results, proper storage of materials used in Catalyst SmartQC is critical:

Refrigerate; do not freeze.
Store unopened pouches at room temperature for up to 8 hours (up to 5 times).
If accidentally frozen for less than 8 hours, allow to thaw at room temperature for at least 60 minutes before use. If materials have been frozen for more than 8 hours, they must be discarded.

Conclusion

Catalyst SmartQC is critical to the precision of veterinary diagnostic tests. Used and stored properly, it gives veterinary professionals an extra measure of assurance when they interpret diagnostic test results. That extra measure is important, because it translates directly into better patient care.