You read your blood sugar level on a blood glucose meter after applying a drop of blood obtained from pricking your fingertip with a lancet to a test strip inserted into the meter. The meter displays the blood sugar reading on its screen within seconds.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Prepare the Lancing Device: Load a new lancet into the lancing device. Adjust the depth setting as needed for your skin type.
- Prepare the Meter and Test Strip: Insert a compatible test strip into the blood glucose meter. Ensure the meter is on and ready to receive the blood sample.
- Obtain a Blood Sample: Clean the side of your fingertip with an alcohol swab and let it air dry. Prick your finger with the lancing device. Gently squeeze your finger to obtain a small drop of blood.
- Apply Blood to Test Strip: Touch and hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood. The test strip will draw the blood in via capillary action. Ensure enough blood is applied as specified by the test strip instructions.
- Read the Results: The blood glucose meter will analyze the blood sample and display your blood sugar level on its screen within a few seconds.
- Record Your Results: Record the reading, along with the date and time, in a logbook or diabetes management app. This helps you and your healthcare provider track your blood sugar levels and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.
- Dispose of Materials Safely: Safely dispose of the used lancet in a sharps container.
Different meters have different functionalities, like storing readings, calculating averages, and connecting to smartphones for easy data logging. Always refer to your specific meter's user manual for detailed instructions.
