5 Steps To Getting Accurate Results From Your Diabetes Meter
If you have diabetes, you know that using a diabetes meter to regularly check your blood sugar is key to keeping healthy and avoiding complications. But just as important as testing regularly is making sure you get accurate results. Here’s how:
1) Code your meter. With every new box of test strips, you’ll need to use control solution to make sure your diabetes meter is reading the strips accurately.
2) Use the right strips. Make sure that the test strips you use are compatible with your diabetes meter. And don’t use expired test strips, which may give inaccurate results. Test strips are only good for three months after opening the vial. When opening a new vial, count forward 90 days and write that date on the vial. Throw away any remaining test strips after that date.
3) Keep it clean. Wash your hands and dry them well before doing the test. Use an
alcohol pad to clean the area that you’re going to lance.
4) Get a drop. Prick yourself with a sterile lancet to get a drop of blood. (If you use your fingertip, it may be easier and less painful to prick it on one side, not on the pad. Washing your hands in hot water may help get the blood flowing. You might also try slowly squeezing the finger from the base to the tip. Place the drop of blood on the test strip. And then follow the instructions for inserting the test strip into the diabetes meter. The diabetes meter will give you a number for your blood sugar level.
5) Write it down. Write down the results from your diabetes meter. You can use a small notebook or ask your doctor for a blood testing record book. You may also want to keep track of what you have eaten, when you took medicine or insulin, and how active you have been during the day. This will help you see how these things affect your blood sugar.
Medicare May Cover your Diabetes Meter*
If you have Medicare and are under a doctor’s orders to test your blood glucose, you may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement of your diabetes testing supplies, including:
- A diabetes meter and batteries
- Test strips
- Lancing devices and lancets
- Control solution
To find out more, call Liberty Medical Supply toll-free at 1-866-373-8971.
* Co-payments and deductibles apply.
