Great question! Not all glucose meters work the same way when it comes to calibration. Some meters do come pre-calibrated and perform automatic checks when turned on, while others require manual calibration to make sure readings stay accurate. The control solution your supply company sends is a liquid with a known glucose Show Full Answer
Great question! Not all glucose meters work the same way when it comes to calibration. Some meters do come pre-calibrated and perform automatic checks when turned on, while others require manual calibration to make sure readings stay accurate. The control solution your supply company sends is a liquid with a known glucose range. You apply it to a test strip to verify your meter is giving accurate readings. It's especially useful in these situations:
- When you open a new box of test strips
- If your meter has been dropped
- When a reading doesn't match how you're feeling
- If repeat tests give very different numbers
It's a good habit to use it regularly, even if your meter seems to be working fine. Accurate readings are really important since they guide decisions about insulin, food, and activity. As a DiabetesTeam member once asked, "Do you ever wonder if your meter is giving you an accurate reading?" — and the honest answer is that even reliable meters can drift. Comparing your meter's reading with a lab test from time to time is also a smart way to stay on top of accuracy. When in doubt, retest and check in with your doctor!
September 8
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