Glucose Meter - Essential Tool for Blood Sugar Testing

A glucose meter is a medical device used to measure the concentration of glucose in the blood, commonly used by individuals with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels.

Glucose Meter FAQ

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Why should you use a blood glucose meter?

Exercise, food, medications, stress and other factors affect your blood glucose level. Using a blood glucose meter can help you better manage your diabetes by tracking any fluctuations in your blood glucose level. Many types of blood glucose meters are available, from basic models to more-advanced meters with multiple features and options.

How do you use a glucose meter?

Place a test strip into the device before pricking your finger. Prick your finger with a lancing device and place a small amount of blood on a test strip. Insert the test strip into the meter to receive a blood glucose level reading. After testing a blood sample, glucose meters typically display blood sugar results as a number on a digital screen.

Does a blood glucose meter measure whole blood glucose?

This is important because home blood glucose meters measure the glucose in whole blood while most lab tests measure the glucose in plasma. Currently, there are many meters on the market that give results as "plasma equivalent," even though they are measuring whole blood glucose.

How do you check a blood glucose meter?

To check your blood glucose levels, begin by thoroughly washing your hands. Place a test strip into the device before pricking your finger. Prick your finger with a lancing device and place a small amount of blood on a test strip. Insert the test strip into the meter to receive a blood glucose level reading.

Why do you need a blood glucose meter?

Keeping an accurate idea of your blood glucose levels is an integral part of successful diabetes management. Blood glucose meters allow you to do this.

Do I need a blood glucose meter if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes, you'll likely need a blood glucose meter to measure and display the amount of sugar (glucose) in your blood. Exercise, food, medications, stress and other factors affect your blood glucose level. Using a blood glucose meter can help you better manage your diabetes by tracking any fluctuations in your blood glucose level.

How does a blood glucose meter work?

When selecting a blood glucose meter, it can help to know the basics of how they work. To use most blood glucose meters, you first insert a test strip into the device. Then with a special needle, you poke a clean fingertip to get a drop of blood.

How do you use a blood glucose meter?

To use most blood glucose meters, you first insert a test strip into the device. Then with a special needle, you poke a clean fingertip to get a drop of blood. You carefully touch the test strip to the blood and wait for a blood glucose reading to appear on the screen.