Learning How To Do A Glucose Blood Test At Home

For anyone with diabetes, it is essential that they keep an eye on their glucose

levels and this is why there are now many types of glucose meters available for home use. These are used to do a glucose blood test and the results can help with the regulating and medicine needed. A glucometer is a medical device for determining the approximate concentration of glucose in the blood. A small drop of blood, obtained by pricking the skin with a lancet, is placed on a disposable test strip that the meter reads and uses to calculate the blood glucose level. The meter then displays the level in mg/dl or mmol/l.

Test strips:

A consumable element containing chemicals that react with glucose in the drop of blood is used for each measurement. For some models this element is a plastic test strip with a small spot impregnated with glucose oxidase and other components. Each strip is used once and then discarded. Instead of strips, some models use discs that may be used for several readings.

Factors affecting the results:

A variety of factors can affect the accuracy of a glucose blood test. These include calibration of meter, ambient temperature, pressure use to wipe off strip (if applicable), size and quality of blood sample, high levels of certain substances (such as ascorbic acid) in blood, haematocrit, dirt on meter, humidity, and aging of test strips.

How to perform the test at home:

1. Wash your hands to prevent infection.

2. Decide where you are going to obtain the blood from, usually a finger. Some of the newer monitors let you use your forearm or another less sensitive place.

3. Turn on the glucometer and place a test strip in the machine when the machine is ready. Watch the indicator for placing the blood to the strip.

4. Wipe the area you've selected with an alcohol prep pad and wait until the alcohol evaporates.

5. Pierce your finger tip on the soft, fleshy pad and obtain a drop of blood. The type of drop of blood is determined by the type of strip you are using (some use a "hanging drop" of blood versus a small drop for strips that draw blood in with a capillary action).

6. Place the drop of blood on or at the side of the strip.

7. The glucometer will take a few moments to calculate the blood sugar reading. Follow your doctor's orders for whatever blood sugar reading you get.

8. You may use the alcohol prep pad to blot the site where you drew the blood if it is still bleeding.

9. Write down your results. Keeping a record makes it easier for you and your doctor to establish a good treatment plan. Some glucometers can store your results in a memory, for easier record keeping.

A glucose blood test which is done properly at home can lead to a reduction in the occurrence rate and severity of long-term complications from hyperglycaemia as well as a reduction in the short-term, potentially life-threatening complications of this disease.

by: Daniel Brash

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