One of the most important tools a diabetic must have is the blood glucose meter, also called a glucometer. This portable machine allows diabetics to control their blood sugar, which is crucial in determining what food you can eat and how the medication you are taking works to control high blood sugar levels. This series of steps teaches you how to use a glucometer.
Steps
Step 1. Get your meter and test strips
You can buy it at any pharmacy. Many insurance companies (if you have one) can pay you for the meter and test strips, if you have a doctor's prescription
Step 2. Check the material and read the instructions that come with the tool
Familiarize yourself with all the functions of the meter. Learn where the test strip fits and where you see the reading
Step 3. Test the meter before using it
Most glucose meters have a way to get tested, to make sure it reads the data correctly. This can be a pre-prepared test strip or a liquid that sits on a test strip. These samples are usually already inserted in the machine and the reading should be within acceptable limits
Step 4. Wash your hands and the area from which you intend to draw blood thoroughly
Most diabetic blood glucose meters tell you to prick your finger for testing, but some new meters allow you to use an area on your arm. Check which of these areas is suitable for your instrument
Step 5. Put some alcohol on a cotton ball
Step 6. Insert a test strip into the slot provided on the meter
Step 7. Scrub the area of skin you want to use for your blood sample with the cotton ball
The alcohol evaporates quickly so there is no need to dry the area, you will just contaminate it
Step 8. Wait for the reader on the meter to indicate to put the drop of blood on the strip
The display may actually read "put sample on strip", or it may indicate a symbol, such as an icon that looks like a drop of liquid
Step 9. Use the lancet provided with the meter and prick the skin
Step 10. Put a drop of blood on the test strip
- The new generation strips offer an "absorbent" action that draws blood to the test strip. Older meters and strips instead require you to actually drop the drop of blood on the strip.
- Most glucose meters require no more than one drop of blood for the test.
Step 11. Wait for the results
The instrument starts a countdown of a few seconds, when the blood sample touches the tape the counter detects the data. Newer meters take 5 seconds, older ones may take 10 to 30 seconds. The instrument emits a visual or acoustic signal when the reading is ready
Step 12. Read and record the results
Some devices can store the readings on their memory card. Others don't, and you'll need to remember to write down the results. Make sure you specify the day, time and type of reading. For example, was the reading taken first thing in the morning? This is referred to as a fasted reading. Was the test done 2 hours after a meal? This is marked as a 2 hour postprandial reading
Advice
- If you are swabing your finger, it may help to wash your hand in warm water for a minute or two and then let it dangle by your side for another minute. This will facilitate blood circulation to the fingers.
- Your doctor will tell you how often and what type of readings you will need to take, so be sure to discuss the use of the meter with him.
