Step 1: Preparation (Before Testing)
1. Wash and Dry Hands: Thoroughly wash hands with warm water and soap, and dry with a clean paper towel. This is the most crucial step to avoid infection and dilute the blood sample.
2. Check Equipment and Test Strips: Confirm that the blood glucose meter has sufficient power.
Check the expiration date and packaging of the test strips, and ensure the test strip model is compatible with the meter.
Immediately close the test strip container lid after removing the test strips to prevent remaining strips from getting damp.
3. Prepare Blood Collection Tools: Install the disposable lancet and adjust the puncture depth according to skin thickness (usually start from the middle setting).
Step 2: Blood Collection Procedure
1. Site Selection and Disinfection: Usually, choose the side of the finger (ring finger or little finger, with fewer nerve endings and less pain). Disinfect the puncture site with a 75% alcohol swab, and wait for the alcohol to completely evaporate before collecting blood.
2. Obtaining a Blood Sample: Press the button on the lancing device to prick the finger, gently massaging the base of the finger to encourage blood flow.
Discard the First Drop of Blood: Wipe away the blood with a dry cotton swab, as it may contain tissue fluid that could affect accuracy.
Collecting the Second Drop of Blood: Gently touch the blood droplet to the absorbent tip of the test strip; the blood will be automatically absorbed. Avoid squeezing forcefully to prevent tissue fluid from contaminating the blood and causing a falsely low result.
Step 3: Reading and Recording Results
1. Waiting for the Reading: The instrument usually displays the result within a few seconds to tens of seconds; please wait patiently.
2. Recording Data: Immediately record the blood glucose level, the testing time (before/after a meal), and any medications or special dietary intake taken that day.
Step 4: Post-Test Handling
1. Hemostasis: Gently press the lancet with a dry cotton swab for a few minutes to stop the bleeding.
2. Waste Disposal: Dispose of the used test strip and lancet in a designated medical waste bin or puncture-proof container.
3. Power Off: Some instruments will automatically power off after the test strip is removed.
Key Precautions and Common Issues
1. Calibration: When opening a new box of test strips, a quality control test must be performed using the matching calibration solution. If the error exceeds ±15%, contact the manufacturer for calibration.
2. Test Strip Storage: Test strips should be kept away from light and moisture. It is recommended to use them within 3 months of opening.
3. Abnormal Results: If the results do not match the symptoms, or if multiple consecutive measurements are abnormal, check if the test strips are damp or if the blood volume is sufficient. Consider retesting at different time points. Seek medical attention promptly if abnormal results persist.
4. Instrument Cleaning: Regularly clean the blood collection port and test strip slot with a soft cloth to prevent blood stains or dust from affecting the optical components.
5. Avoid Interference: Keep away from microwave ovens, mobile phones, and other devices that cause strong electromagnetic interference during measurement.
