Daily testing of blood glucose levels is one of the most important ways for diabetics to manage their diabetes. It is best to keep your blood glucose levels as close to the normal or target range as possible. You can accomplish this through eating a healthy diet, taking all diabetic medications on time and as prescribed, and by keeping physically active, according to dLife.com. Keeping your blood sugar levels stable allows you to feel better and avoid developing complications. Diabetics typically have routine blood glucose testing prescribed several times a year at a lab, but home monitoring kits are available that are convenient and easy to use.
Step 1
Consult a physician to determine your target blood sugar range. For many diabetics, the target blood sugar ranges are 90 to 130 mg/dL for fasting and lower than 180 mg/dL following a meal, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 2
Know what times are the best for checking your blood glucose level. You can get this information directly from your physician. Joslin Diabetes Center suggests checking before breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Your doctor may also have you check it one to two hours following a meal.
Step 3
Prepare for the blood glucose test. MayoClinic.com recommends washing your hands with soap and water and letting them dry before handling the test strips to avoid contamination. Remove one test strip from the jar and examine it for imperfections, immediately replacing the cap to avoid moisture contamination. Calibrate the monitor per the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 4
Prick your finger with the lancet to draw a drop of blood. Using the side of the finger, instead of the center of the fingertip, is less painful. If necessary, hold the finger down and press underneath the prick to obtain a larger drop of blood.
Step 5
Allow the test strip to absorb the blood. Avoid touching the test strip with any skin. The test strip will need to be inserted into the monitor in order for it to be read. Follow the manufacturer's instructions; some monitors require the test strip to be inserted before pricking the finger for the blood sample.
Step 6
Read the number on the monitor's screen, which comes up within a few seconds to a minute. This number will represent your blood glucose level.
Step 7
Record your blood glucose level in a journal by time and date. You can also use the journal to record information about the dose of your diabetes medication, food you've eaten, changes in activity, illness and stress. Bring this journal to all your doctor's appointments for your physician to view. MayoClinic.com also suggests keeping track of the information on your computer.
Tips and Warnings
- Store the test strips in a spot that is cool and dry. Discard any outdated or damaged test strips immediately.
- Consult your physician immediately if your blood glucose readings are consistently too high or too low. You may need to have your medication adjusted.
Things You'll Need
- Appointment with a physician
- Soap
- Glucose test strips
- Glucose monitoring kit
- Journal and pen
