Diabetes is a serious problem though people often tend to take it lightly. But doctors have time and again warned people to take serious care of diabetes and do everything in their power to control their sugar levels. With advanced technology testing, the blood sugar level is easy and can be done at home. Wanna know how? Then the best glucometer in India can be the best solution for you.
About Glucometer
A glucometer is an electronic device that is very helpful for diabetic people as it helps them check their blood sugar levels at home. It is easy to use, convenient and pocket-friendly that you must keep at home for regular testing. Suppose you are a busy person and cannot make time for a timely check-up. Get yourself a glucometer that you can carry around and test your blood sugar anywhere.
How To Use A Glucometer?
Glucometers are very handy and easy to use, but first-time users might find them a little tricky. But here is a helpful guide for you to make sure you get it right the very first time!
List Of Things You Need To Keep At Hand
- Alcohol swab
- Test Strips
- Lancet
- Glucometer machine
- A notepad to write the results
- And ensure all the things are sanitized properly
The Steps Are
- Keep an alcohol swab ready and rub the place in your palm from where you intend to collect the blood
- Properly sanitize your hands and wash them before beginning the test
- If you warm up your hands by rubbing them briskly or using warm water, it can be easy to collect blood. As warm water makes blood easier and makes sure to dry them before testing. Do not assume that wet or dry hands have an impact on the results, it does not
- Turn on the glucometer and wait for the indicator to blink. Once you get the signal start collecting the blood
- Pierce your finger with the lancet to collect the blood. The type of blood required depends on the type of test strip you are using. Some devices require hanging blood, whereas another type draws blood from capillary action
- Place the blood in the test strip and put it in the glucometer for testing
- The glucometer only takes a few seconds to give the results. And it gives the most accurate results
- You can use the alcohol pad to blot on the pierced area if it bleeds; this will stop the blood
- To keep track of the blood sugar levels, write the results down. It will be immensely helpful for your doctor
Testing On The Go
Like we previously mentioned, the best glucometer in India is an immensely beneficial device for people who are on the go and find little time for clinical testing. So here are a few things you need to do if you are testing outside your house.
- Be prepared always. Keep twice the number of testing strips and lancets at hand, just in case
- Keep all the types of equipment sanitized. Also, carry enough water
- Do not leave the glucometer in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Ensure you keep it in a clean and dry place or inside a separate compartment in your bag
- Dispose of the lancet and test strips in the red containers that are made for this purpose. You can get these in any pharmacy nearby
- Suppose you are traveling for several days carrying all the things and the glucometer in airtight contains and remember to calibrate the glucometer once a week. Make sure that the lancet and test strips don’t come in contact with the moisture outside
- Keep a stash of fast-acting carbohydrate snacks, insulin, and all your medicines in case of any emergency
Tips For First Time User
We all know using a glucometer is simple and easy, but it can be a little tricky for first-time users as they can panic or stress or might not get it right the first time. Here are a few helpful tips for first time users to make sure you get it right the first time:
- If you find the process of piercing very painful, change your lancet gauge. Lancets come in different sizes, and you need to find the perfect one for your device. The higher the number of the lancet, the thinner the lancet
- There is a setting on every glucometer that enables you to adjust how deep the lancet pierces the skin. Adjust this according to your needs and avoid unnecessary stress
- Only use the test strips designed for your glucometer. Others will not fit your device
Few Common Problems You Should Avoid
To avoid potential problems, keep your glucometer in perfect condition. Follow these tips for good functioning:
- Keep extra batteries in stock and only buy those that your device needs
- Calibrate your machine once a month to keep it in good condition
To control diabetes and keep a check on it, you must use a glucometer.
