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Monitoring blood glucose - Series

Monitoring blood glucose: Using a self-test meter

Set up the meter according to the specific directions that come with your meter. Get the supplies ready, including a new test strip and disposable lancet. Place the lancet into the lancing device.

Insert a test strip

Insert a new test strip into the meter.

Prick your finger

Wash your hands. Then gently prick the side (the less sensitive part) of your finger with the lancet to draw out a drop of blood.

Calculate glucose level

Touch the test strip to the drop of blood. The blood is automatically pulled into the test strip. The meter then calculates your blood glucose level.

Record your reading

In your logbook, record the time of day and the blood sugar reading that shows on the glucometer. Some meters keep a log automatically.

Related Information

Type 2 diabetes
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Review Date: 5/13/2023  

Reviewed By: Sandeep K. Dhaliwal, MD, board-certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Springfield, VA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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