Changing the lancet, or needle, in a diabetic lancing device is critical if multiple people use the same device; this is the only way to keep from inadvertently exchanging blood or spreading infection. Changing the lancet is important for a single user, too, for the same reasons---plus because with every additional stick performed by a lancet, its needle gets more dull and thus more painful. Lancing devices come in two general types: Those that are loaded with just one lancet at a time, and those that are loaded with a pre-filled drum of multiple lancets.
Single Lancet Devices
Step 1
Point the lancing device away from you and press the trigger button to make sure the lancet is not spring-loaded.
Step 2
Hold the lancing device over a sharps container.
Step 3
Pull straight out on the lancing device's cap to remove it.
Step 4
Upend the lancing device to tip the used lancet out or, if your device has an ejector slide or button on it, slide this forward toward the front of the device, or press it, to eject the used lancet.
Step 5
Place a fresh lancet into the device, oriented just as the one you ejected. Take care not to prick your fingers on the lancet. If you do, remove it as directed above and start over with a new one. With most devices you will clearly hear the lancet snap into place as you insert it.
Step 6
Slide the cap back on to the lancing device.
Drum-Loaded Lancing Devices
Step 1
Hold the lancing device away from you and press the release, trigger or lancing button to make sure there is no spring-loaded lancet still in the body of the lancing device.
Step 2
Pull the cap directly off the lancing device. This should be easily done with just gentle pressure.
Step 3
Upend the lancing device so that the used drum slides out. Dispose of it in a sharps container.
Step 4
Slide a new drum of fresh lancets into the lancing device. With most devices, it should snap into place when inserted.
Step 5
Place the lancing device cap back in place and make sure it is seated firmly.
Tips and Warnings
- The cap on your lancing device is usually used to control the depth of the needle stick. Always take note of what setting it was at before you remove it to change the lancet, then return it to the same setting once you have inserted a new lancet.
Things You'll Need
- Sharps container
- New lancet
