Computerized Blood Glucose Monitoring Procedure

Disinfect the sides of your fingers with alcohol and allow them to air-dry. During winter blood collection, you may let your hands hang down and gently swing them several times to promote blood circulation. Turn on the blood glucose meter, insert a test strip, then stretch the skin taut. Place the lancet firmly against the skin and puncture it. Gently squeeze from the base of the finger toward the fingertip—do not squeeze directly over the puncture site. Wipe away the first drop of blood with a dry cotton swab, then apply the second drop onto the test strip. Finally, press the puncture site with a cotton swab until bleeding stops.