Gather your tools
To
test your blood sugar, you'll need a lancing device with a lancing tip
for finger or alternate-site sticks, a test strip and your glucose
meter.
- Lancet
- Lancing device cap for finger sticks
- Lancing device cap for alternate-site sticks
-
Glucose meter
- Lancing device
- Dial to set depth of skin puncture
- Vial containing test strips
-
Test strip
Calibrate your meter
Many
glucose meters must be calibrated every time you open a new vial of
test strips. Each meter has its own calibration technique. Follow the
manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Some meters have a code chip —
often called a key — that slips into the device. In this image, the
code number on the vial of test strips has been entered in the meter
using the calibration button. In most testing devices, the calibration
button is labeled "C."
Some newer meters don't need calibration.
Wash your hands
Wash
your hands with soap and warm water. Dry them completely. If you don't
have access to soap and warm water, use an alcohol pad to clean the
area you plan to stick. Because alcohol can affect your blood sugar
reading, dry the area completely before puncturing your skin.
Puncture your fingertip
Before
you puncture your fingertip, load the test strip into your meter. If
you're using a lancing device similar to the one shown here, make sure
you've attached the lancing tip for finger pricks. It's usually opaque.
Use the depth dial on the top
of the lancing device to select the penetration depth of your lancing
tip. Place the tip covering the lancet on the side of your fingertip,
which is less sensitive than the flat side of the tip of your finger.
Press the button to discharge the lancet.
Prick an alternate site
If
your glucose meter is approved for use on alternate sites, change the
tip on your lancing device to the correct tip. The lancing tip for
alternate sites is usually clear plastic, so you can see the drop of
blood as it comes out.
Use
soap and water to wash your hands and the area you're going to stick.
To stimulate the flow of blood, rub the site briskly before you stick
it.
If you're pricking an alternate site for the first time, set the needle
stick to its greatest depth. This will help you get enough blood on the
first try. As you get more confident with the device, you'll find the
depth that's best for you.
Hold the lancing device cap down
Press
the lancing device cap down to force the blood out from under your
skin. It can take five to 10 seconds to form a drop that's large enough
to test.
Don't use an alternate site
for testing if you think your blood sugar is low, your blood sugar is
rapidly changing because of food or medication, or you've just
exercised. The results won't be as accurate as a finger stick.
Touch test strip to blood
Hold your hand down to encourage
a drop of blood to emerge. If the blood doesn't come out easily, gently
squeeze the end of your finger. Avoid touching your skin with the test
strip. Instead, touch the drop of blood. The blood will be absorbed by
the wicking action of the test strip.
View your results
Not all glucose meters work the same way. To view your results, follow the instructions that come with your meter.
Have questions about technique?
Ask your diabetes nurse educator to review your technique the next time
you visit. If you have problems with your glucose meter, call the
manufacturer. The customer service number is usually printed on the
back of the meter.
Record your results
Record
the results of each blood sugar test. You'll need this record when you
visit your doctor or other members of your diabetes health care team
for checkups. Most diabetes record books include places to record the
date, time, medication dose, blood sugar test results and relevant
comments, such as exercise, a missed meal or illness.
Discard your lancet
Place the used lancet in a safe
container — one that will prevent people from sticking themselves. The
type of container shown here is typically found in restrooms at health
care facilities.
Lancet disposal boxes are
available at health care supply stores and many pharmacies. You may
also place used lancets in a heavy-duty plastic container, such as an
empty laundry detergent bottle or a metal container with a secure lid.
When the container is full, ask your local garbage company about proper
disposal. Containers with used lancets are considered hazardous waste.
Store your equipment
You may want to keep your blood
sugar testing supplies in a small carrying case for easy access when
you're on the go. Take special care to keep your equipment out of hot
or cold places, such as the glove compartment in your car in summer or
winter. When you travel, place your medication prescription with your
glucose testing kit. Carry these items with you, rather than stowing
them in your luggage.
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