Diabetic Monitors-Blood Glucose meter & Strips

What is Blood Glucose Monitor:

Blood glucose monitoring is the use of a glucose meter for testing the concentration of glucose in the blood. Particularly important in diabetes management, a blood glucose test is typically performed by piercing the skin (typically, on the finger) to draw blood, then applying the blood to a chemically active disposable 'test-strip'. Different manufacturers use different technology, but most systems measure an electrical characteristic and use this to determine the glucose level in the blood. The test is usually referred to as capillary blood glucose.

Blood glucose monitoring reveals individual patterns of blood glucose changes, and helps in the planning of meals, activities, and at what time of day to take medications. Also, testing allows for a quick response to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This might include diet adjustments, exercise, and insulin (as instructed by the health care provider).

Know your target range:

Ask your health care provider what a reasonable blood sugar range is for you. Your health care provider will set target blood sugar test results based on several factors, including:

• Type and severity of diabetes
• Age
• How long you've lived with diabetes
• Pregnancy status
• The presence of diabetes complications
• Overall health and the presence of other medical conditions

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) generally recommends the following target blood sugar levels:

• Between 80 and 130 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or 4.4 to 7.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) before meals
• Less than 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) two hours after meals

But the ADA notes that these goals often vary depending on your age and personal health and should be individualized.

How to use a Blood glucose meter:

1. Wash and dry your hands well. (Food and other substances can give you an inaccurate reading.)
2. Insert a test strip into your meter.
3. Prick the side of your fingertip with the needle (lancet) provided with your test kit.
4. Touch and hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood.
5. The meter will display your blood sugar level on a screen after a few seconds.