Blood tests are used to monitor or measure cells, chemicals, proteins, or other substances present in the blood. Blood testing, also termed blood work, this diagnostic method is among the most prevalent types of laboratory tests. It is routinely integrated into regular checkups. Blood tests serve various purposes, including:
- Help in the diagnosis of specific diseases and conditions.
- Monitor chronic diseases or conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for a given ailment.
- Assess the functionality of vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, heart, and thyroid.
- Diagnose bleeding or clotting disorders.
- Determine the efficiency of the immune system in combating infections.
7 Important Tips to Monitor Blood Sugar
The two main types are blood glucose meters, which use a drop of blood to check what your levels are at that moment, and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that check your blood glucose regularly, day or night.
Seek advice from your healthcare provider to help you pick the best-suited blood sugar test kit. In addition, have someone else learn how to use the kit in case you’re sick and can’t check your blood sugar yourself. Below are the seven useful tips for how to use a blood sugar
- Seek Help to Get Started
Even though instructions are provided in the leaflet accompanying the glucometer, seeking guidance from your physician or physician’s assistant is crucial. If you find it challenging to follow the instructions, consider visiting your family doctor’s clinic for assistance until you grasp the technique correctly. Learning the correct procedure for the test is paramount, as incorrect execution may lead to inaccurate results akin to a rapidly ticking time bomb. Additionally, obtaining clear instructions from your doctor regarding the recommended frequency of the test is equally vital to avoid excessive testing of your glucose levels.
- Clean Your Hands Properly
Make sure your hands are clean before testing your blood glucose. Even minor residues of food, sugar, or dirt on your fingertips can affect the precision of your reading. To clean your hands properly:
- Use warm water and gentle soap
- Rinse and dry your hands gently by using a clean towel
- Avoid hand sanitizers containing sugar or fragrance, as they may disrupt your readings
Washing your hands before conducting the test is a simple and effective method to guarantee the accuracy of your results.
- Check the Accuracy of Your Device:
It’s advisable to check the precision of your blood sugar monitor device. Calibration standards for glucometers may change, so verifying your device’s proper function is advisable. Follow these steps:
- Use a control solution supplied by the manufacturer.
- Follow the instructions outlined in the control solution package.
- Test your glucometer using the control solution and compare the results to the anticipated range.
If your glucometer consistently yields inaccurate readings, contact the manufacturer for guidance or consider getting a new device.
Additionally, ensure you use high-quality and prescribed test strips for accurate results.
- Use the Lancet Device to Prick Your Finger Properly
Use a lancing device to prick your finger to collect a blood sample for testing. Follow these guidelines for this process:
- Rotate the puncture site on your finger to reduce discomfort and avoid developing calluses.
- Confirm that the lancet device is adjusted to a depth suitable for your skin type.
- Follow the guidelines for the accurate lancing technique.
Remember that lancing should be as painless as possible, and a gentle squeeze of your finger will produce a sufficient blood sample for testing.
- Allow Proper Blood Flow
When collecting the blood sample for testing, it’s essential to facilitate proper blood flow for an accurate reading. Observe these steps:
- Gently massage the region around the puncture site to promote blood flow.
- Refrain from “milking” your finger, as it can introduce tissue fluid into the blood sample.
- Permit the blood drop to form naturally without excessively squeezing your finger.
- Pay Attention to the Testing Time
Timing plays an essential role in blood glucose testing. Make sure to follow these recommendations:
- Conduct your blood glucose test at the prescribed time, whether fasting, before meals, after meals, or as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Document the date and time of your tests in a logbook, or use a digital app to monitor your readings consistently.
- Strive for consistency in your testing schedule to identify patterns and implement essential adjustments to your diabetes control plan.
- Keep Your Testing Device Clean
Maintenance and regular blood sugar monitor device cleaning are crucial for precise readings. Here’s how to maintain your device:
- Follow the cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer for both the device and any accompanying accessories.
- Employ a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the device.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that may harm the screen or sensors.
A clean monitoring device guarantees that no residues disrupt your readings.
Additional Tips
- Dispose of the used lancet and strip it appropriately in a trash container.
- Avoid sharing blood sugar monitoring equipment, including lancets, with others, including family members.
- Store test strips in the provided container, safeguarding them from moisture, extreme heat, or cold temperatures.
In Conclusion
Accurately monitoring blood glucose levels using a glucometer is crucial for effective diabetes management. Following these guidelines will help ensure the dependability of your readings, enabling you to make well-informed decisions regarding your diabetes care. It’s essential to seek guidance from your healthcare provider for advice on blood glucose testing and overall diabetes treatment.
