Getting accurate blood sugar readings comes down to preparation and technique. Here's a step-by-step guide to testing properly:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them completely. Hand sanitizer alone isn't enough, and any sugar, lotion, or dirt on your skin can throw off the reading
2. Warm up your hands if Show Full Answer
Getting accurate blood sugar readings comes down to preparation and technique. Here's a step-by-step guide to testing properly:
1. Wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them completely. Hand sanitizer alone isn't enough, and any sugar, lotion, or dirt on your skin can throw off the reading.
2. Warm up your hands if they're cold — try rubbing them together or running them under warm water. Cold hands make it harder to get enough blood flow to your fingertips.
3. Prick your fingertip with a lancet to get a small drop of blood.
4. Place the blood on a fresh test strip that's compatible with your meter. If the first drop is too small, don't add more blood to the same strip — use a new one.
5. Read your result on the meter screen within seconds. A few extra tips to keep readings reliable:
- Store test strips in their original container with the lid tightly closed, away from heat and moisture.
- Keep your meter and strips at room temperature when possible.
- Check expiration dates on test strips — expired strips can give inaccurate results.
- Try to test from the same area of the body consistently, as readings can vary between sites.
- Occasionally compare your meter's reading with a lab test to make sure it's working correctly. If a reading seems off — especially if it doesn't match how you're feeling — wash your hands and retest using a new strip. If results continue to seem unusual, it's worth reaching out to a doctor. Accurate readings matter because they guide important decisions about food, activity, and medication.
October 14
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