Glucometers are digital devices that give you a reading of your blood sugar, with just a small prick and a drop of blood. They are easy to use and convenient to carry around. They can be handled with ease and you can get an almost accurate reading in the matter of minutes.
How to use a glucometer effectively:
- First, set out your glucometer, a test strip, a lancet and a small cotton ball, dipped in a disinfectant.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before the test to prevent infection.
- Decide which finger you are going to prick to draw out blood. Usually the middle finger is convenient to use.
- Sometimes, it may help to improve the blood flow to the fingers, by warming them. You can either rub them or place them in warm water for a while.
- Turn on the glucometer and place a test strip in the machine. Wait till the machine indicates that you can place the strip.
- Make sure your hands are dry and then with the cotton ball, dab the disinfectant on the finger you intend to prick.
- Prick the soft fleshy fingertip to obtain the blood required. Sometimes you may have to massage gently under the prick, to improve the flow.
- Place this drop of blood on the test strip placed earlier on the glucometer.
- Place the cotton ball on the prick to prevent infection.
- The glucometer will take a few seconds before it beeps out the reading of your blood sugar level.
- Make sure you note it down in your diary so that you can have a proper record of your sugar levels.
