Blood glucose test strips effectively monitor blood, and diabetes levels in individuals. However, it's crucial to learn how to use these glucose strips in the right manner to get the right measurements and manage diabetes well. In this easy-to-follow manual, you will learn how to prepare for the use of blood glucose test strips, how to perform the test and receive technical explanations to frequently asked questions.
An Overview Of Blood Glucose Test Strips
Blood glucose test strips are small and disposable and are used in conjunction with a glucometer to determine blood glucose levels. Every strip has a special enzyme usually glucose oxidase, which works when blood is applied on the strip. This enzyme begins a chemical reaction that creates a tiny electric current which is related to the concentration of glucose in the blood.
Some of the main parts of a test strip are as follows;
- Substrate Layer: The place where the blood sample is taken and placed for it to be analyzed.
- Enzymatic Layer: Has enzymes that can interact with glucose in the bloodstream.
- Electrode Layer: Identifies the electrical signal that has been produced by the reaction.
- Protective Coating: Ensures the strips do not get contaminated and also helps keep the strips in their best condition.
A Simple Guide to the Procedure of Blood Glucose Test Strips
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before starting, ensure you have all necessary supplies:
2. Choosing the Right Lancet Device
- Adjust the Depth: Adjust the lancet depth depending on the skin type, if possible to adjust to the skin type of the individual.
- Cock the Device: Cock the device, which involves pulling back the plunger to set it ready for use.
3. Wash Your Hands
- Clean Your Hands: Avoid touching the surface with bare hands as hands contain oil that may interfere with the result of the test; clean your hands with soap and water.
- Dry Your Hands: It is also necessary that your hands are very dry before testing is done.
4. Place the Test Strip into the Glucometer
- Turn On the Meter: The test strip when inserted in the glucometer often triggers the power on command of the glucometer. Read the glucometer’s manual for details on the specific instructions to follow.
- Check the Display: Before testing, make sure that the glucometer is ready to test by looking at the prompt or error message.
5. Obtain a Blood Sample
- Prepare Your Finger: It is advised to clean the area where you will prick using an alcohol swab, especially on the fingertip. Allow it to dry in the open without covering it for some time or preferably until it dries up on its own.
- Prick Your Finger: Take a small lancet to prick the side of your fingertip with it. Do not use the middle of the fingertip to prevent discomfort.
6. Lick the Blood on the Test Strip
- Touch the Blood Sample: Tap lightly with the blood drop on one side of the test strip.
- Ensure Proper Application: Ensure that a sufficient amount of blood is applied on the strip for the test to yield the right results. If the glucometer warns that there is not enough blood, follow the directions on the glucometer.
7. Wait for the Results
- Wait for the Reading: The various glucometers on the market today will require a few seconds to analyze the blood sample and show the result.
- Record the Result: Record your blood glucose level if needed for future reference or your doctor’s prescribed course of action.
8. Discard the Test Strip and Lancet
- Discard the Strip: Discard the used test strips in a medical waste bin as they are used in testing body fluids.
- Dispose of the Lancet: Properly dispose of the used lancet in the sharps container to avoid dangerous needle sticks and infection.
9. Clean Up
- Wash Your Hands: After that, you have to wash your hands again before proceeding to the next step.
- Clean the Glucometer: As for glucometer maintenance, always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines on how to clean and store it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Error Messages: If the glucometer gives an error, check for problems such as the strip being inserted wrongly, the strips being expired or the blood sample is inadequate. Consult the glucometer’s user manual to find out more about the procedures for handling such issues.
- Inconsistent Results: If the values are not consistent ensure that you are using the right technique, check whether the strips that you are using are expired or not and if the glucometer is not functioning properly it should be calibrated.
- Pain or Discomfort: If you feel any sort of discomfort, switch to a smaller depth on the lancing device or use another finger.
Conclusion
The correct application of blood glucose test strips is very important, especially for a diabetic patient. This guide has provided you with the necessary steps to follow and practices to undertake and therefore, you can easily be in a position to obtain accurate readings and achieve better control over your blood sugar levels. Please always seek advice from your healthcare provider for recommendations and changes to your testing schedule where necessary.
FAQs
Q1. When should I check my blood glucose levels?
The tests are done from time to time depending on the health status of the person and the treatment plan given to him or her.
Q2. What should I do when the glucometer I am using displays an error message?
Some of the causes of error messages include improper insertion of strips, expiry of the strips, and inadequate blood samples. Look in the glucometer manual for suggestions and make sure that you are using those strips properly.
Q3. What is the correct way of storing my blood glucose test strips?
Test strips should ideally be kept in their foil packs and kept in a cool dry area and out of direct sunlight. After weighing, make sure that the container is tightly closed to prevent the strips from being contaminated.
ANTITECK provide glucose strip production line for glucose test strips manufacturing, contact us for more information via [email protected]
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