These test strips help to measure the concentration of glucose in the blood. It acts as a reliable and convenient self-testing method when used along with a blood glucose monitor. All you need to do is prick your finger and put a drop or two on the test strip and place it in the monitor for results. It helps you to provide quick and reliable results in the comfort of your place. It can be used for both professional (at clinics) as well as personal (at home) use.
It is very simple to use. You have to remove a single diabetes test strip from the box of strips. Insert it into the slot on the glucometer just before you prick your finger. So, it will be easy to add your blood sample onto the strip and get the results. In case of any doubt, read the instructions on the glucometer beforehand.
It is wise to check the test strips before use carefully for better results. Also, always check the expiry date on the test strips and lancets before buying. This is because, the use of outdated strips can give incorrect readings, and thus, serve no purpose. Do wash your hands thoroughly with an antiseptic hand-wash before the test.
Read the user manual/instruction leaflet carefully before using the strips. However, here is a step-by-step guide you need to follow to check your blood glucose level at home with the help of a glucose monitor.
No. All the blood glucose test strips are for single use only. Do not ever reuse a test strip as it may not provide you with the appropriate results. It is strongly advised to always discard a test strip after every use.
It is well known that testing blood glucose levels with a glucometer at home is one of the best ways to manage diabetes. It can help you to test your blood glucose at any time of the day and anywhere. Using a portable glucometer is the best way to test glucose when traveling. Charting of blood glucose levels becomes easy with glucometers especially with devices having memory options to store previous readings. By helping you to keep your blood glucose level in check, blood glucose monitors can help you manage diabetes better.
According to the American Diabetes Association, the fasting or preprandial blood glucose levels for diabetics should be between 80 – 130 mg/dl and postprandial (1-2 hours after meals) should be less than 180 mg/dl. However, the range mentioned in your glucose monitor may be a little different. So, you need to speak to your doctor to calibrate the results with your lab reports.
The diabetes devices or glucometers test the amount of glucose in the blood. The test strips present in glucometers contain an enzyme glucose oxidase, which reacts with glucose in the blood and sends the result as an electronic signal, which is displayed on the monitor.
If you have type 1 diabetes, you may need to check your blood glucose levels several times a day such as pre and post-meals and before and after exercise or as advised by your doctor. Whereas, if you have type 2 diabetes, the frequency of monitoring your sugar levels might be based on the severity of the condition which can be several times a day, once a day, or thrice a week. Hence, talk to your doctor about how often you should test your blood glucose.