Diabetics aim to keep their blood glucose level within normal range (82 to 110 mg/dL). Insulin therapy is a common method in which exogenous insulin analogues are injected when blood glucose levels are high. A blood-sampling device, also known as a lancing device, is a reusable instrument equipped with a lancet. It is also most commonly used by diabetics during blood glucose monitoring. The depth of skin penetration can be adjusted for various skin thicknesses.
There are various types of lancets available in the market with the popular ones being the Accu Chek Multiclix lancets, the Accu Chek Softclix lancets and the Accu Chek Fastclix lancets.
Testing supply storage
- Avoid storing meters and test strips in areas that experience varied temperatures, including heat, cold, sunlight or moisture. This can cause meters to produce error messages or damage chemical reagents on test strips, which can cause inaccurate readings.
- Only use test strips within 30 days of the date you first open the vial. Write the expiration date in permanent marker on the outside of the vial to help remember the date.
- Always store strips in their original vial and replace the vial cap immediately after removing the strips to avoid damage to strips, exposure to airborne contaminants and inaccurate readings.
- Never use strips that are stored in cracked or damaged bottles.
Testing supply usage
- Always use the test strip that is specific to your blood glucose meter to ensure compatibility. Some strips are physically but not chemically compatible with other meters, and will produce inaccurate readings. Follow meter instructions carefully for proper coding. Also, check that your meter batteries are fully charged, as low batteries can skew results.
- Ensure the meter is prepared to receive a blood droplet before drawing the sample.
- Avoid testing near rooms where there may be high levels of humidity-like the bathroom-as this can alter readings.
- Change lancets for every test, to avoid irritation from dull needles.
Test site
- While some new meters allow for alternate site testing, the fingertip is the most accurate test site because it registers changes in blood glucose more quickly than the rest of the body. To avoid calluses, soreness and infection, prick the finger on the sides-not the pads-, alternating between different sides and all ten fingers.
- Properly clean testing site with soap and water before drawing a sample using the Accu Chek Multiclix lancets. Even the smallest bits of food, sugar and glucose tablet residue can alter a reading. Make sure the site is entirely dry because even water can affect results.
- Try to test at approximately the same time each day, which will make it easier for you to identify patterns or sudden changes in your results.