How to use a glucometer - instructions for use, rules of use, types and times for measurement. We measure blood sugar with a glucometer correctly and at the right moments

Careful monitoring of blood sugar levels is essential successful treatment diabetes mellitus. Regularly measuring glucose levels helps determine correct dosage insulin and glucose-lowering drugs, and determine the effectiveness of therapeutic therapy.

Especially important for diabetics, it is necessary to measure sugar after meals, since it is at this moment that the risk of developing hyperglycemia is especially high - sharp jump glucose in the body. If a hyperglycemic attack is not stopped in a timely manner, it can lead to severe consequences, including diabetic coma.

But correct analysis blood tests after meals should be carried out at the moment when the glucose level reaches its highest level. Therefore, every diabetic should know how long after eating to measure blood sugar in order to get the most objective glucose readings.

Why measure blood sugar?

For patients suffering from type 1 diabetes, checking your blood glucose levels is vital. With this disease, the patient needs to perform an independent blood test before going to bed and immediately after waking up, and sometimes during the night, before and after meals, as well as before and after meals. physical activity and emotional experiences.

Thus, for type 1 diabetes, the total number of blood sugar measurements can be 8 times a day. At the same time, this procedure should be taken especially carefully in case of a cold or infectious diseases, changes in diet and changes in physical activity.

For people with type 2 diabetes, regular blood testing using a glucometer is also considered important part treatment. This is especially true for those patients who have been prescribed insulin therapy. At the same time, it is especially important for such patients to measure glucose levels after meals and before going to bed.

But if a patient with type 2 diabetes manages to stop taking insulin injections and switch to glucose-lowering pills, therapeutic nutrition and physical education, then it will be enough for him to check his blood sugar levels only a few times a week.

Why measure your blood sugar level:

1. Determine how effective treatment is and determine the degree of diabetes compensation;
2. Determine what effect the chosen diet and sports activities have on blood glucose levels;
3. Determine what other factors can affect sugar concentration, including various diseases and stressful situations;
4. Identify the reception of which medical supplies may affect sugar levels;
5. Determine the development of hyper- or hypoglycemia in a timely manner and take appropriate action necessary measures to normalize blood sugar.

Every person with diabetes should not forget about the need to measure their blood sugar levels.

Missing from time to time this procedure, the patient risks earning severe complications, which can lead to the development of heart and kidney diseases, blurred vision, the appearance of non-healing ulcers on the legs, and eventually to amputation of the limbs.

When to measure your blood sugar levels

Sugar level

The principle of operation of the glucometer is as follows: the patient inserts a special test strip into the device, and then dips it in a small amount of his own blood. After this, numbers appear on the glucometer screen that correspond to the glucose level in the patient’s body.

At first glance, everything seems very simple, but carrying out this procedure requires compliance certain rules, which are designed to improve the quality of the analysis and minimize any error.

How to properly use a glucometer to measure your blood sugar:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and then dry them well with a clean towel. Under no circumstances should you measure sugar if the patient’s hands are still wet;
2. Insert a special test strip into the glucometer. It must be suitable for the given device model and have a normal expiration date;
3. Using a special device - a lancet equipped with a small needle, pierce the skin on the pad of one of the fingers;
4. With the other hand, gently press your finger until a small drop of blood appears on the surface of the skin;
5. Carefully bring the test strip to the wounded finger and wait until it absorbs the patient’s blood;
6. Wait 5-10 seconds for the device to process the data and display the analysis result;
7. If your sugar level is elevated, you should additionally inject 2 units of short-acting insulin into your body.

It is important to emphasize that many modern glucometers do not measure sugar in capillary blood, but in its plasma. Therefore, the result obtained may be slightly higher than that obtained during laboratory analysis.

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus these days is simply becoming a pandemic, so the presence of a portable device in the house with which you can quickly check the blood sugar concentration this moment, vital.

If there are no diabetics in your family or family, doctors recommend getting tested for sugar annually. If there is a history of prediabetes, glycemic control should be constant. To do this, you need your own glucometer, its purchase will pay off with the health that it will help save, because complications with this chronic pathology dangerous. The most accurate device will distort the analysis picture if the instructions and hygiene are neglected. These recommendations will help you understand how to correctly measure blood sugar with a glucometer throughout the day.

Glucose measurement algorithm

In order for the glucometer readings to be reliable, it is important to follow simple rules.

1. Preparing the device for the procedure. Check the presence of a lancet in the piercer, set the required puncture level on the scale: for thin skin 2-3, for male hands– 3-4. Prepare a pencil case with test strips, glasses, a pen, and a diabetic diary if you record the results on paper. If the device requires coding of a new package of strips, check the code with a special chip. Make sure there is sufficient lighting. You should not wash your hands at the preliminary stage.
2. Hygiene. Wash your hands with soap warm water. This will slightly increase blood flow and capillary blood will be easier to obtain. You can dry your hands and, especially, wipe your finger with alcohol only in hiking conditions, taking care that the remnants of its vapors distort the analysis picture less. To maintain sterility at home, it is better to dry your finger with a hairdryer or naturally.
3. Preparing the strip. Before the puncture, you need to insert a test strip into the glucometer. The bottle with strips must be closed immediately. The device starts working automatically. After identifying the strip, an image of a drop appears on the screen, confirming that the device is ready to analyze the biomaterial.
4. Checking the piercer. Check the moisture of your finger (the ring finger of your left hand is most often used). If the depth of the puncture on the handle is set correctly, the injection from the piercer will be less painful than from a scarifier during examination in a hospital. In this case, the lancet must be used new or after sterilization.
5. Finger massage. After a puncture, the main thing is not to be nervous, because emotional background also affects the result. You will have time to do everything, so do not rush to convulsively squeeze your finger - instead of capillary blood, you can grab some of the fat and lymph. Massage your finger a little from the base to nail plate– this will increase its blood supply.
6. Preparation of biomaterial. It is better to remove the first drop that appears with a cotton pad: the result from subsequent doses will be more reliable. Squeeze out another drop and apply it to the test strip (or bring it to the end of the strip - in new models the device draws it in automatically).
7. Evaluation of the result. When the device has taken biomaterial, a sound signal will sound; if there is not enough blood, the nature of the signal will be different, intermittent. In this case, you will have to repeat the procedure using a new strip. At this time, the hourglass symbol is displayed on the screen. Wait 4-8 seconds until the display shows the result in mg/dL or m/mol/L.
8. Monitoring indicators. If the device is not connected to a computer, do not rely on memory; enter the data in your diabetic diary. In addition to the glucometer readings, they usually indicate the date, time and factors that may influence the result (foods, medications, stress, sleep quality, physical activity).
9. Storage conditions. Typically, the device turns off automatically after removing the test strip. Place all components in a special case. The strips should be stored in a tightly closed pencil case. The glucometer should not be left in a straight line. sun rays or a heating radiator, he doesn’t need a refrigerator either. Keep the device in a dry place at room temperature, away from children's attention.

The well-being and even the life of a diabetic depends on the accuracy of the readings, so study the recommendations carefully.

If you have any questions, you can show your model to an endocrinologist, he will definitely advise you.

Possible errors and features of home tests

Blood sampling for a glucometer can be done not only from fingers, which, by the way, need to be changed, as well as the puncture site. This will help avoid injury. If for this purpose in many models the forearm, thigh or other part of the body is used, the preparation algorithm remains the same. True, blood circulation in alternative zones is somewhat lower. The measurement time also changes slightly: postprandial sugar (after eating) is measured not after 2 hours, but after 2 hours 20 minutes.

An independent blood test is carried out only using a certified glucometer and test strips suitable for this type of device with normal period suitability. Most often, fasting sugar is measured at home (on an empty stomach, in the morning) and postprandial sugar, 2 hours after eating. Immediately after eating, indicators are checked to assess the body's reaction to certain foods in order to create a personal table of the body's glycemic responses to a specific type of food. Such studies must be coordinated with an endocrinologist.

The results of the analysis largely depend on the type of glucometer and the quality of the test strips, so the choice of device must be approached with full responsibility.

When to measure blood sugar with a glucometer

The frequency and duration of procedures depends on many factors: the type of diabetes, the characteristics of the medications the patient is taking, and the treatment regimen. For type 1 diabetes, measurements are taken before each meal to determine dosage. In type 2 diabetes there is no such need if the patient compensates for sugar with hypoglycemic tablets. At combination treatment in parallel with insulin or during complete insulin replacement therapy, measurements are carried out more often, depending on the type of insulin.

For diabetics with type 2 disease, in addition to standard measurements several times a week (with orally compensation of glycemia), it is advisable to carry out control days when sugar is measured 5-6 times a day: in the morning, on an empty stomach, after breakfast, and subsequently - before and after each meal and again at night, and in some cases at 3 o'clock nights.

Such detailed analysis will help adjust the treatment regimen, especially if diabetes is not fully compensated.

In this case, diabetics who use devices for continuous glycemic monitoring have an advantage, but for most of our compatriots such chips are a luxury.

WITH for preventive purposes You can check your sugar once a month. If the user is at risk (age, heredity, excess weight, accompanying illnesses, increased stress, prediabetes), you need to monitor your glycemic profile as often as possible.

In a specific case, this issue must be agreed upon with an endocrinologist.

Glucometer readings: norm, table

Using a personal glucometer, you can monitor the body’s response to food and medications, control the necessary norm physical and emotional stress, effectively control your glycemic profile.

Sugar norm for a diabetic healthy person will be different. In the latter case, standard indicators have been developed that can be conveniently presented in a table.

For a diabetic, an endocrinologist determines the normal limits according to the following parameters:

• Stage of development of the underlying disease;
• Concomitant pathologies;
• Age of the patient;
• General condition of the patient.

Prediabetes is diagnosed when the glucometer reading increases to 6.1 mmol/l on an empty stomach and from 11.1 mmol/l after a carbohydrate load. Regardless of the time of meal, this indicator should also be at the level of 11.1 mmol/l.

If you have been using one device for many years, it is useful to evaluate its accuracy when taking tests in the clinic. To do this, immediately after the examination you need to take a second measurement on your device. If a diabetic’s sugar levels drop to 4.2 mmol/l, an error on the glucometer is allowed no more than 0.8 mmol/l in any direction. If higher parameters are assessed, the deviation can be either 10 or 20%.

Which glucometer is better

In addition to analyzing consumer reviews on thematic forums, it is worth consulting with your doctor. For patients with all types of diabetes, the state regulates benefits for medications, glucometers, test strips, and the endocrinologist should know which models are available in your region.

Our most popular devices are based on the electrochemical principle of operation.

If you are purchasing a device for your family for the first time, consider some nuances:

1. Consumables. Check the availability and cost of test strips and lancets in your pharmacy chain. They must fully comply with the selected model. Often the cost of consumables exceeds the price of the glucometer; this is important to consider.
2. Acceptable errors. Study the instructions from the manufacturer: what kind of error the device allows, whether it specifically evaluates plasma glucose levels or all types of blood sugars. If you have the opportunity to check the error on yourself, this is an ideal option. After three consecutive measurements, the results should differ by no more than 5-10%.
3. Appearance. For older users and visually impaired persons, screen size and numbers vary important role. It’s good if the display has a backlight and a Russian-language menu.
4. Encoding. Evaluate the coding features; for mature consumers, devices with automatic coding are more suitable, as they do not require correction after purchasing each new package of test strips.
5. Volume of biomaterial. The amount of blood that the device requires for one analysis can range from 0.6 to 2 μl. If you are purchasing a glucometer for a child, choose a model with minimal needs.
6. Metric units. The results on the display can be shown in mg/dL or mmol/L. In the post-Soviet space, the latter option is used; to convert values, you can use the formula: 1 mol/l = 18 mg/dl. In old age, such calculations are not always convenient.
7. Memory size. When processing results electronically, important parameters will be the memory size (from 30 to 1500 last measurements) and the program for calculating the average value for half a month or a month.
8. Additional functions. Some models are compatible with a computer or other gadgets; evaluate the need for such conveniences.
9. Multifunctional devices. For hypertensive patients, people with lipid metabolism disorders and diabetics, devices with combined capabilities will be convenient. Such multi-devices determine not only sugar, but also blood pressure and cholesterol. The price of such new products is appropriate.

Diabetics need to monitor their blood glucose levels daily. At home, this procedure is carried out using special device– glucometer. However, if this is your first time doing this test yourself, some difficulties may arise. Let's figure out how to correctly measure blood sugar with a glucometer.

Rules for using a glucometer

To ensure accurate glucometer readings, it is important to follow certain rules.

Calibration

Most blood glucose meters require you to calibrate the device before taking a measurement. Don't neglect this procedure. Otherwise, the received data will be incorrect. The patient will have a distorted picture of the course of the disease. Calibration takes just minutes. Details of its implementation are described in the instructions for the device.

Measurement three times a day

Blood sugar measurements should be taken before meals, after meals and before bed. If the analysis must be done on an empty stomach, then the last snack is acceptable 14–15 hours before the procedure. For type 2 diabetes, it is recommended to take measurements several times a week. But insulin-dependent diabetics (type 1) should monitor glycemia several times a day. However, one should not lose sight of the fact that the reception medicines and spicy infectious diseases may affect the data obtained.

Monitoring indicators

If inconsistencies are noted in the device readings, it is necessary to re-test. Results may be affected by insufficient blood from the puncture site and unsuitable test strips. To eliminate the first reason, it is recommended to wash your hands before the analysis. warm water. After the puncture, the finger should be lightly massaged. Do not squeeze out blood under any circumstances.

Expiration date of consumables

Before using test strips, be sure to check that they are within their expiration date and have been stored in favorable conditions: in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Do not touch them with wet hands. Before testing, make sure that the code on the device screen matches the numbers on the test strip packaging.

Correct operation

To extend the life of your glucometer, monitor its condition: clean the device on time, change lancets. Dust particles may negatively affect the measurement results. If there are several diabetics in the family, each should have an individual meter.

How to take measurements

Those who pick up a glucometer for the first time should carefully study the instructions to know how to correctly measure blood sugar. The procedure for all devices is almost the same.

1. Prepare your hands for analysis. Wash them with soap and warm water. Wipe dry. Prepare a test strip. Insert it into the device until it stops. To activate the meter, press the start button. Some models turn on automatically after inserting a test strip.
2. Prick the pad of your finger. To avoid injuring the area of ​​skin from which blood is taken, change your fingers each time. For the fence biological material The middle, index and ring fingers on each hand will do. Some models allow blood to be drawn from the upper arm. If the piercing process causes pain, prick not in the middle of the pad, but from the side.
3. Wipe off the first drop with a cotton swab, apply the second onto the prepared test strip. Depending on the model, it may take from 5 to 60 seconds to get the result. Test readings will be saved in the meter's memory. However, it is recommended to duplicate the obtained figures in a special self-monitoring diary. Don't forget to take into account the instrument's error. Acceptable standards must be specified in the accompanying instructions.
4. After finishing the measurement Remove the used test strip and discard it. If your meter does not have an auto-off feature, do so by pressing a button.

Do not use the lancet more than once.

Normal blood sugar

The goal of a diabetic is not just to measure blood sugar, but to make sure that the result obtained is within the normal range. It should be taken into account that the norm of indicators for each person is individual and depends on many factors: age, general condition health, pregnancy, various types of infections and diseases.

In diabetics, blood glucose levels may differ significantly from the data given. For example, their sugar measurements in the morning on an empty stomach usually range from 6 to 8.3 mmol/l, and after eating the figure can jump to 12 mmol/l and higher.

How to lower glucose levels

To reduce high glycemic levels, you must adhere to the following rules.

• Follow a strict diet. Eliminate fried, smoked, salty and spicy foods from your diet. Reduce the amount of flour and sweets. Include vegetables, cereals, lean meat and dairy products in the menu.
• Do physical exercise.
• Visit your endocrinologist regularly and listen to his recommendations.
• In some cases, insulin injections may be required. The dose of the drug depends on weight, age and severity of the disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends testing every 3 years after age 40. If you are at risk (overweight, have relatives with diabetes), then annually. This allows you not to start the disease and not lead to complications.

Operating principle and types of glucometers

A glucometer is a portable device that can be used to measure blood sugar at home. Based on the device’s readings, conclusions are drawn about the patient’s health status. All modern analyzers are distinguished by high accuracy, fast data processing and ease of use.

As a rule, glucometers are compact. If necessary, you can carry them with you and take measurements at any time. Typically, the kit along with the device includes a set of sterile lancets, test strips and a lancing pen. Each test should be performed using new test strips.

Depending on the diagnostic method, there are:

• Photometric meters. Measurements are made by painting the surface of the test strip in a certain color. The results are calculated based on the intensity and tone of the color. This method considered obsolete, such glucometers are almost never found on sale.
• Electrochemical meters. Modern glucometers operate on the basis of the electrochemical method, in which the main measurement parameters are changes in current strength. The working surface of the test strips is treated with a special coating. As soon as a drop of blood falls on it, it happens chemical reaction. To read the results of the procedure, the device sends current pulses to the strip and, based on the data received, produces a finished result.

A glucometer is a necessary device for every diabetic. Regular measurements help monitor blood sugar levels and avoid complications of diabetes. However, it is important to remember that self-control cannot replace laboratory diagnostics. Therefore, be sure to get tested once a month at a medical facility and adjust your therapy with your doctor.

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Measuring blood glucose with a glucometer is a common procedure for most people with diabetes, both type 1 and type 2. They carry out this procedure repeatedly throughout the day. It helps control blood glucose and maintain it normal level. A home glucometer for measuring is a relatively inexpensive, easy-to-use device. However, not everyone knows how to use a glucometer correctly.

Preparation

It is important not only to know how to properly measure your blood sugar level at home, but also to figure out how to prepare for the test. Only when proper preparation its results will be as reliable and informative as possible.

• High sugar in the body can be a result of stress;
• Against, low level glucose in the blood, taking into account the usual nutritional system, perhaps when there has recently been significant physical activity;
• During long fasting, weight loss, strict diet, measuring blood sugar levels is uninformative, since the indicators will be underestimated;
• Measure blood sugar on an empty stomach (required), and also, if necessary, during the day. At the same time, when you need to monitor fasting sugar levels, you need to measure the level of glucose compounds in the sample immediately after the patient wakes up. Before this, you should not brush your teeth (the toothpaste contains sucrose) or chew gum (for the same reason);
• It is necessary to measure the level in only one type of sample - always venous (from a vein), or always capillary (from a finger). This is due to the difference in blood sugar levels at home when different types are taken. In the venous sample the values ​​are slightly lower. The design of almost all glucometers is only suitable for measuring blood from a finger.

There are no difficulties in how to measure blood sugar without a glucometer. But to make the numbers as informative and objective as possible, many factors need to be taken into account.

Measurement algorithm

There are some nuances to how to correctly measure sugar with a glucometer. The procedure has an algorithm that sometimes varies slightly depending on the model of the device and its features. Blood should be taken as follows:

• Determine the location where the puncture will be made when measuring blood sugar. In an adult, this is usually a finger. But in cases where there are many punctures on the upper phalanx (in patients who measure glucose levels very often), the location can be changed. You can measure blood sugar at home or on the road using a sample from your earlobe or palm. Infants and very young children do not have material pricked for testing. They pierce the skin on the foot, heel, earlobe;
• Thoroughly rinse the area from which you will take the sample. Ordinary soap is suitable for this. In addition, glucose measurement can be carried out by pre-treating the puncture site with alcohol wipes or an antiseptic spray;
• Almost any meter is equipped with a special needle pen with a mechanism that allows you to quickly and painlessly draw blood. If such a device is not included in the kit, you need to buy it separately, since measuring blood sugar with a glucometer is much easier with its help. The needles in the device are consumables. They require replacement, however, they do not need to be changed every time. But in the case when more than one person in a family tests blood glucose levels with the same device, each user must have individual needles;
• Place the working area of ​​the “handle” on the skin, press firmly enough and press the button;
• Apply the sample to the test strip and insert the strip into the turned on device. There may be differences depending on the type of device. In some cases, the strip must already be installed in it and only then the sample is applied. For others, you can apply the blood sample to a strip and then insert it into the meter to measure your blood sugar;
• Press a button on the device that activates the sample analysis process. In some models, this process begins automatically immediately after applying the sample;
• Wait until a stable reading appears on the screen. This is blood sugar at home at the moment.

There are no difficulties in using a glucometer. Diabetic children also cope with this. With some practice, measuring your sugar will be quick and easy.

When to take measurements?

Many diabetics wonder how often to test their blood sugar. It is important to monitor your blood sugar at home throughout the day. If the level is unstable or when diabetes is not compensated, readings should be taken at least seven times a day. It is best to measure your sugar during the day during the following periods:

1. In the morning, without getting out of bed, on an empty stomach;
2. Before breakfast;
3. Before other meals;
4. Measure blood levels every half hour for two hours after eating to assess the absorption of carbohydrates (a sugar curve is constructed by analogy);
5. Measuring blood sugar with a glucometer before bedtime;
6. If possible, take blood readings late at night or early in the morning, as hypoglycemia may occur at this time.

Since checking the sugar level in the body with a glucometer is simple and does not require any skill, the frequency of these procedures does not affect negative influence on quality of life. And since it is impossible to determine blood sugar levels without a device, it becomes necessary.

Materials and equipment

To measure the concentration level of glucose compounds in the body using home glucometer three main components are needed, each of which has its own characteristics.

• Actually a glucometer. It allows you to test your blood for a given concentration for free. They differ in price, country of production, accuracy and complexity. Devices that are too cheap usually have a shorter service life and low reading accuracy. If the patient does not want to constantly think about whether the results are determined correctly, it is better to buy better devices (OneTouch devices are popular);
• It is impossible to measure sugar correctly without test strips. These are paper strips with a special coating onto which a sample is applied. Blood sugar can only be determined using strips that are compatible with a glucometer. They are not cheap and are not always available (for some models it is very difficult to buy them). Therefore, this fact should also be taken into account when choosing a device. They have an expiration date, after which they cannot be used to measure blood sugar;
• Needle pens are most often included with the device, but sometimes you have to buy them separately. In this case, the model of the glucometer is not important, since the needle does not interact directly with it. The needles must be replaced periodically as they become dull. This can be determined subjectively - over time, taking blood with a glucometer can become painful, then the needle needs to be changed. Also, multiple users of the same meter should have individual needles.

Depending on the error of the equipment, patients have to independently correct the readings when measuring.

-FOOTNOTE-

In modern devices, however, the determination of glucose in the body is quite accurate and requires almost no adjustment.

Normal readings

To control your condition, in addition to how to find out your blood sugar level and measure your glucose at home, you need to remember what the blood sugar norm is in case of illness and in a healthy person. This will help you objectively assess your condition.

In a healthy person, checking the level shows a concentration in the range of 4.4 - 5.5 mmol per liter. If you check the sugar of a diabetic, the numbers will be higher - in this case, a level of up to 7.2 is normal. In addition, it is important to measure the child's readings correctly. Their norm is lower - from 3.5 to 5.0

Naturally, blood sugar levels rise after eating. But within two hours it should begin to decrease again (if the metabolism is good). If you take a glucose-lowering drug and then check your blood, the readings will become significantly lower almost immediately. In case of diabetes and prediabetes, it is worth checking the readings frequently, as they can be unstable. In addition, a blood sugar test is performed to monitor the effectiveness of glucose-lowering medications. How and how to measure sugar and how the glucometer works is described in the video below.

Video

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One of important conditions successful treatment of diabetes mellitus – proper self-control. The patient is advised to regularly check blood glucose levels at home. Glucometers are used for such measurements.

You can purchase such a device at almost any pharmacy and medical equipment stores.

The sizes of glucometers are quite small (with cellular telephone). They are comfortable to hold in the palm of your hand. The case usually has several buttons, a display, and a port for test strips. The devices operate on different types of batteries.

Glucometers differ in the set of functions, memory capacity, and type of test strips. You can check with your doctor about what kind of device you need.

When purchasing a device, check:

• packaging integrity;
• availability of instructions in Russian;
• compliance with the configuration;
• Correctly filling out the warranty service card.

If you encounter any difficulties with your glucometer, you can contact us for help. service center. Our specialists will replace the faulty device under warranty. Also in such centers the accuracy of the analysis is checked. The correct operation of the glucometer is assessed using special control solutions.

The permissible error for this device according to current standards is 20% for 95% of measurements. Some manufacturers claim a smaller error (10–15%).

How to use a glucometer

The principle of measuring blood glucose is similar for all devices. The analysis uses predominantly the electrochemical method. Determining blood glucose levels at home takes very little time.

For each sugar measurement you will need:

• glucometer;
• lancet (scarifier);
• test strip;
• cotton wool;
• disinfectant solution.

Start measuring your glucose levels by thoroughly cleansing your skin. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap, rinse with running water, and wipe dry with a clean towel.

Then prepare a test strip. Open the package of disposable strips. Take one of them, avoiding touching the work surface.

Next you need to turn on the glucometer. Some models are activated by pressing a button, others by inserting a test strip. Typically, after you start working, a waiting icon (for example, a blinking drop of blood) will appear on the screen.

Some glucometers require coding. If your model is of this type, then use the chip or enter the digital code from the package of test strips.

When the glucometer is ready for use, you need to puncture the skin. You can take blood from any finger of the left and right hand. If you measure your sugar less than once a day, it is advisable to prick the skin ring finger. If self-control is carried out more often, then use others (little finger, thumb, index finger).

The skin needs to be pierced on the side surface of the fingertip. There is good blood flow and relatively few pain receptors. In addition, less stress is placed on the side surface during the day.

To get enough blood, it is advisable to clench and unclench your fist tightly several times before the puncture.

Blood is obtained using a special scarifier. The medical steel plate has several sharp teeth. Its edge is as sharp as possible.

The scarifier is a disposable item. It should never be shared with other people due to the risk of infections. Repeated individual use of the same scarifier is also undesirable. The blade quickly deforms and begins to injure the skin. This makes drawing blood painful.

For maximum convenience, automatic scarifiers have been created. These devices resemble a pen. On most models, the depth of the skin puncture is adjustable. The disposable steel sharpened plate is hidden under a cap with a hole. After pressing the button, the scarifier quickly pierces the skin to a specified depth.

When the first drop of blood appears on the surface, it should be removed with cotton wool. The next portion of blood in a volume of 15–50 μl can be used for analysis. To the eye, this volume of blood corresponds to a grain of buckwheat.

Capillary-type test strips are applied to the drop from above. The material absorbs the required volume of blood. The test liquid is applied to other test strips by touching.

Once the blood has been drawn, you can disinfect the wound with the solution. Use peroxide, chlorhexidine, boric alcohol etc.

After the blood gets onto the plate, electrochemical analysis begins. At this time, the display shows a standby icon or a timer runs. Glucometers different models It takes 5 to 60 seconds to assess your sugar level.

When the analysis is completed, the result appears on the screen. Some models also have voice data output (the sugar level is announced). This feature is convenient for people with low vision.

Measurement results can be stored in the device's memory. Even if the data storage volume is large, it is advisable to duplicate the received figures in the Diary. Indicate not only your sugar level, but also the time when the test was performed.

When to measure blood sugar

According to standards, patients with any type of diabetes are required to regularly measure their sugar with a glucometer. If you use insulin for treatment, then you need to perform at least three tests per day (before each main meal).

Repeated self-monitoring (more than 7 times a day) is needed for pregnant women with type 1 diabetes and with insulin pump therapy. The attending physician will tell you exactly when a test is needed during the day.

If your treatment regimen includes only diet and pills, then it is advisable to monitor your glucose once a week 4 times a day (on an empty stomach, before lunch and dinner, before bedtime).

Additionally, you need to measure blood sugar when:

• a sharp deterioration in health;
• increased body temperature above 37 degrees;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• before and after intense physical activity.

In addition, the doctor may prescribe additional control points to adjust treatment (for example, at night or early in the morning).

Self-monitoring with a glucometer does not replace laboratory diagnostics. At least once a month you need to take a blood test for glucose in conditions medical institution. It is also advisable to examine the level of glycated hemoglobin every 3–6 months.