A blood glucose monitor is a device that an individual or health professional can use to check blood sugar levels. There is a variety of devices available on the market, and some require calibration before use. This is typically only done with the first use or at other special times, like when opening a new bottle of test strips. The purpose of calibration is to provide the monitor with important details about the test process, such as the test strip type. Make sure to confirm any calibration steps with the product's user manual.
Step 1
Review the user manual provided with the glucose monitor. It is possible for each monitor to have completely different instructions for calibration.
Step 2
Turn the glucose monitor on. Depending on the type, the monitor may have a power button, or inserting a test strip into the end of the monitor will turn the device on.
Step 3
Read the screen of the monitor when the device powers on. New monitors will likely show a series of dashes. Previously used devices will flash a code, and some will proceed to the next screen to let you know that the device is ready to take a blood sample.
Step 4
Enter the code found on the vial of test strips into the glucose monitor that shows dashes. Wait until the device responds to the code before proceeding. Typically, this means withdrawing the test strip that turned the device on and inserting a new one. The device is now calibrated.
Step 5
Navigate to the menu or options screen of a previously used device until you find the option to change calibration. It is best to consult the user manual to locate this menu screen.
Step 6
Enter the new code. New codes are usually found on test strip vials, but they can also be recommended by a health care professional.
Tips and Warnings
- Some models of glucose monitors may require a test done with a control solution to confirm calibration. If this is the case, apply a small amount of the control solution to the test strip in the same manner that blood would be sampled. The device should be run in the test setting, but this varies from one device to another.
Things You'll Need
- Glucose monitor
- Test strip vial
- User manual
