How to Use a Lancing Device and Blood Glucose Meter

Introduction

• This week's lesson focuses on using a lancing device and blood glucose meter.
• Learn useful tips for effective and safe blood glucose monitoring.

Lancing Device Usage

• Purpose: Used to obtain a blood sample, usually from the finger.

Preparation Tips

1. Hand Washing

   • Wash hands with warm water and soap to improve blood flow.
   • Warm and rub hands for better blood flow.

2. Loading the Lancing Device

   • Twist the cap off.
   • Insert an unused lancet with grooves aligned.
   • Make needle visible, then carefully cap it again.

3. Lancet Usage

   • Use a new lancet each time to avoid dullness and infection risk.

Adjusting the Device

• Depth Indicator: Adjusts how deep the lancet goes into the finger.
• Practice needed to find personal comfort level.

Minimizing Pain

• Finger Pad vs. Sides
  • More nerve endings on the pad; use sides for less pain.
  • Switch fingers regularly to prevent skin thickening.
• Consult healthcare professional for thinner lancets if needed.

Using the Blood Glucose Meter

• Control Solution Test
  • Perform when opening new test strips or if meter seems faulty.
  • Test ensures accurate meter and strip readings.

Steps for Testing

1. Gather Materials

   • Glucose monitor, in-date test strips.
   • Primed lancing device, cotton wool pad.
   • Yellow sharps bin, monitoring diary.

2. Testing Procedure

   • Insert test strip into meter, wait for readiness.
   • Use lancing device on the side of finger.
   • Apply light pressure to form a blood drop if necessary.
   • Wipe first drop; use the second drop for testing.
   • Ensure no smearing occurs.
   • Touch test strip to blood drop to get reading.

3. Recording Results

   • Write down results in a monitoring diary or electronic records.

Important Tips

• Meter Consistency
  • Use one consistent meter to track trends accurately.

Disposal of Materials

• Remove used test strips and lancets safely.
• Dispose of them in a yellow sharps bin following proper safety protocols.

Conclusion

• Practice proper techniques and safety measures.
• Engage by commenting on experiences with these guidelines.

Final Notes

• Stay updated by following weekly updates and videos.

• Ensure all equipment is disposed of safely.
• Check device and strip accuracy regularly.