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Canwest News Service
Q: What are blood glucose meters?
A: A blood glucose meter is a device designed to allow patients–at home or on the go–to determine the amount of sugar in their blood (blood glucose) at any given time. When used properly, they can be an extremely helpful self-management tool for people with all types of diabetes.
Q: Why is it important that I test my blood glucose regularly?
A: Regular blood glucose testing not only helps your diabetes care team to better direct your treatment by exposing the strengths and weaknesses of your current plan, but also empowers you to immediately make minor adjustments to your lifestyle based upon the results. if, for example, you notice that your blood sugar has risen well above target after a big spaghetti dinner, you may think twice before helping yourself to such a large portion the next time or you may choose to avoid pasta all together. if after making these changes, your levels remain elevated, you can bring that data to your doctor, who will modify your treatment plan accordingly.
Q: What is the cost involved? A: in addition to the meter, one must also consider the ongoing expense of test strips and lancets. their prices vary widely from pharmacy to pharmacy. Most meters (available at your local drug store) have a suggested retail price of $35 to 45, but some manufacturers offer theirs for free with the purchase of test strips. Specialty meters (e. g. continuous monitoring systems, devices for the visually impaired) boast significantly higher price tags. Your province or territory may subsidize the cost of monitoring supplies. Contact your local Canadian diabetes Association branch for more information ( diabetes.ca).Q: How do I know which blood glucose meter is right for me?
A: the wide range of meters can be overwhelming at first. Some boast large displays (great for the visually impaired), while others light up (great for testing in the dark). techies may love being able to download their results to their pC, while less computer-savvy users may appreciate the simplicity of a more basic model. Consider your needs and abilities carefully before making a decision.
Q: Okay, I have a meter. Now how do I use it?
A: 1) Wash your hands. 2) insert a test strip into the meter. 3) For the most accurate reading, draw blood from the side of your fingertip. 4) Gently squeeze your finger until a drop of blood forms. (different meters require different sample sizes.) 5) Hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood and wait for the result to appear. 6) Record the reading in your logbook along with the date, time and whether the test was done before or after eating. Once a year, be sure to check your meter's accuracy against a laboratory measurement. Yours should be within 20 per cent of the lab's reading. (Note: every meter is different, so refer to your user's manual before you begin testing.)
Q: How often should I test my blood glucose?
A: the Canadian diabetes Association recommends that people with type 1 diabetes check their blood glucose at least three times a day and include both pre-(fasting) and post-meal (postprandial) readings; type 2, at least once a day if they're insulin-dependant. However, all people with diabetes can benefit from frequent testing. diet, exercise, medication, illness and stress can all have an effect on the results, so it is helpful to test at various times of day. the more often you test, the better you'll be able to manage your blood glucose levels. By limiting the day-to-day highs and lows, you'll reduce your risk of future complications. Your doctor can help you determine your ideal testing schedule.
Q: What should my blood glucose targets be?
A: target ranges vary from person to person, but most people with diabetes should aim for a fasting blood glucose of 4.0 to 7.0 mmol/L and postprandial blood glucose of 5.0 to 10.0 mmol/L. Ask your doctor what your levels should be.
