GLUCOMETER – Here are some useful and effective tips on how to use a glucometer to monitor your blood sugar level.
Maintaining optimal health requires keeping a close eye on different aspects of our well-being, one of which is blood sugar levels. These measures, also known as blood glucose levels, provide crucial insights into our bodies’ metabolism and play an important role in overall health.
Blood sugar, or glucose, is a type of sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for our cells. It comes from the foods we eat, especially those rich in carbohydrates, and is transported through the bloodstream to be used by cells for various bodily functions.
Blood sugar levels are typically measured in milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). The optimal range can vary depending on various factors, including age, health status, and time of day.
Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is important for diabetes management and overall well-being. A glucometer is a portable gadget that allows individuals to measure their blood sugar levels comfortably and accurately, is an important tool in regulating blood glucose levels.
Here are the step-by-step procedures on how to use a glucometer:
Before starting your blood sugar level monitoring, gather all the necessary equipment such as glucometer, test strips, lancet device, lancets, alcohol swabs, and cotton balls.
- Step 1 – Insert a test strip and turn on the glucometer
- Step 2 – Wash your hands and dry them
- Step 3 – Set up the lancet device and clean the testing site with an alcohol swab
- Step 4 – Load a lancet into the device and adjust the depth setting according to your comfort level
- Step 5 – Press the lancet device’s release button to prick your finger and gently massage your finger until a blood droplet forms
- Step 6 – Let the test strip touch the blood droplet until your blood sugar level is shown on the screen
- Step 7 – Record the details
Extra steps
- Dispose lancets and test strips after use
- To reduce discomfort and the risk of infection, always use a new lancet for each test.
- Check the expiration date on your test strips and keep them carefully.
- Keep your glucometer clean and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.