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@A DiabetesTeam Member No, no problem
Anyone who does "stick tests" SHOULD use an alcohol swab before lancing AND should use a new lancing (needle) every single time in order to prevent a possible infection
I always use an alcohol swab before I stick myself 100% of the time
Wipe the finger and then I load the test trip and lance the finger - maybe 10 or 15 seconds after swabbing - I don't want the alcohol "dripping wet" but still there and the alcohol has zero effect on the blood sugar reading (alcohol used in the swabs has no sugar or salt or anything that would effect the blood sugar reading)
I'm not so vigilant on changing the lancing needle and when I stick tested regularly I would use the same needle until it started to hurt (got a little blunt)
But that is NOT a Healthy Practice, but thousands do it with no negative effects - but there is a risk of infection if you re-use your "finger sticker" without changing the lance every time
Thanks Graham. 👌
Using alcohol swabs before testing your blood sugar is generally safe and does not affect the reading if done correctly. However, ensure the alcohol has completely dried before pricking your finger. If it hasn’t dried, it might dilute the blood sample and potentially impact the accuracy of the reading. Washing your hands Show Full Answer
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