Blood glucose meter
10 secrets for reliable measurements
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Be aware of measurement delay with CGM and FGM sensors
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They measure glucose in the subcutaneous tissue, not the blood. As a result, displayed values can lag the current blood value by up to ten minutes. Take this delay into account especially after meals or intense exercise, when blood sugar can change rapidly.
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Read the user manual before first use
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Familiarise yourself with operation, device functions (e.g. alarms, memory, smartphone pairing) and the recommended storage conditions. This reduces user errors and increases the reliability of your measurements.
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Keep test strips in the original container
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Always store test strips in the original container, protected from moisture and dirt. Do not use strips that have fallen on the floor. Also check the expiry date so strips do not give incorrect readings.
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Observe temperature limits
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Be aware that some components can produce incorrect values below 4 °C or above 30 °C. When transporting equipment in cold conditions, keep it in an inner pocket and allow items that were stored cold to return to room temperature before measuring.
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Prepare your hands clean and dry
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Wash your hands with a mild soap without sugary additives (no honey/caramel) and dry them thoroughly. Residues of cream or fruit juice, as well as moisture, can distort results.
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Wipe away the first drop of blood and avoid squeezing the finger too hard
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Wipe away the first drop, as it can contain tissue fluid. Also avoid squeezing the finger forcefully, as cellular fluid may dilute the sample. Gently massage or shake the hand beforehand to improve circulation.
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Insert test strips correctly and provide enough blood
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Place the test strip according to the instructions at the blood drop and hold it there until enough blood has been drawn. Make sure to touch the strip only at the designated points to avoid contamination.
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Use lancets only once and rotate puncture sites
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Use the lancet only once to prevent infections. Also rotate puncture sites regularly. The sides of the fingertips (e.g. middle, ring or little finger) are less sensitive and often provide a better blood volume.
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Consider sensor placement and mechanical influences
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Place sensors at the recommended sites (abdomen, buttock, thigh or back of the upper arm) and avoid scar tissue. Be aware that belt buckles, seat belts or piercings can interfere with the measurement.
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- Plan water activities and secure the sensor additionally \n
Although many sensors are water resistant, the adhesive can come loose when bathing or swimming. Secure the sensor if necessary with an additional waterproof dressing. Also note that the transmitter's wireless signal may be limited underwater.
editorial.facts
- Capillary blood testing by fingerstick is a quick and accurate method for obtaining a single point‑in‑time value. However, it does not reveal intermediate fluctuations and can become uncomfortable with frequent use or be distorted by incorrect handling.
- Research is being conducted into methods that could provide information about insulin or metabolic status through body odour. One example is the development of a sensor that could be integrated into smartwatches in the medium term.
- Typical target ranges are fasting 60–100 mg/dl and under 140 mg/dl two hours after eating. Values over 200 mg/dl after food intake suggest hyperglycaemia and should be investigated.
