Point-of-care testing (POCT) for glucose is an essential tool for the management of diabetes or to track glucose levels at home. With technology developments, glucose meters for home use are now more accurate, simpler to use, and more affordable.
Nevertheless, best practices in glucose POCT devices’ use remain crucial to accurate outcomes.
Best Practices in Choosing the Right Glucose Meter
The first step towards efficient self-monitoring begins with correct glucose meter selection. Ensure to note these points:
- Accuracy and Reliability: FDA-approved or CE-marked glucose meters should be considered.
- Ease of Use: Ease of reading, device usability, and speed of results are all indicators of proper device use.
- Test Strip Availability: Confirm that affordable strips that will work for your meter are accessible.
- Memory and Connectivity: Mobile apps in conjunction with some meters can store results for further analysis.
Best Tips for Glucose POCT Devices Use at Home
Proper Hygiene Measures Prior To Blood Testing
- Thoroughly wash hands with warm water and soap prior to blood testing.
- Ensure hands are properly dried to eliminate dilution of the blood sample.
- Avoid use of alcohol wipes unless soap and water is unavailable as they affect readings.
Use of Lancing Devices and Test Strips More Adequately
The correct test strips for the glucose meter must be used.
- To reduce pain and the risk of infection, replace the lancet as needed. For an adequate blood sample, set the correct depth on the lancing device. Insert a test strip into the glucose meter prior to pricking the finger. Instead of the pad, use the side of the fingertip for a more comfortable feel. Apply the blood sample to the test strip per the instructions. Record the result after waiting for the reading.
- Compare your readings with the recommended target glucose levels set by your healthcare provider. Record your results logs, especially if you feel the symptoms of hypo- or hyperglycemia.
- Record anything that may affect the readings such as meals, exercise, or medication. Store the test strips away to avoid them getting spoiled. As instructed by the manufacturer, clean the glucose meter from time to time. Ensure that the device is accurate by calibrating it wit when needed. If your blood sugar results keep showing high or low values. If you show signs of severe hypoglycaemia like fainting, confusion, dizziness or show excessive thirst and frequently urinate which indicates hyperglycemia. If the glucose meter does not stop showing error messages even after following the correct steps.
Conclusion
Monitoring glucose levels with a POCT device at home greatly aids in diabetes control and overall health management. Choosing the correct device, following established protocols, and recording the readings appropriately will lead to better measurements and more thoughtful actions. A healthcare professional should be consulted regularly to help with managing the disease and other concerns better.
