Slide show: Blood sugar testing

Blood sugar testing is usually done with a special needle called a lancet and an electronic glucose monitor. Start by gathering your supplies:

1. Lancet
2. Lancing device cap for finger sticks
3. Lancing device cap for alternate-site sticks
4. Glucose monitor
5. Lancing device
6. Dial to set depth of skin puncture (available on some lancing devices)
7. Vial containing test strips
8. Test strip

Some glucose monitors must be coded every time you open a new vial of test strips. Each meter has its own coding technique. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Be sure to keep the instructions handy for future reference.

Some meters have a code chip — often called a key — that slips into the device. In this image, the code number on the vial of test strips has been entered into the monitor using the button labeled "C."

Some newer monitors don't need coding.

Wash your hands with soap and warm water. Dry them completely. If you don't have access to soap and warm water, use an alcohol pad to clean the area you plan to stick. Because alcohol can affect your blood sugar reading, dry the area completely before pricking your skin.

Before you prick your fingertip, load the test strip into your meter. If you're using a lancing device similar to the one shown here, make sure you've attached the lancing tip for finger pricks. It's usually opaque.

Use the depth dial on the top of the lancing device to select the penetration depth of your lancing tip. Place the tip covering the lancet on the side of your fingertip, which is less sensitive than the flat side of the tip of your finger. Press the button to discharge the lancet.

If your glucose meter is approved for use on alternate sites, switch to the correct tip on your lancing device. The lancing tip for alternate sites is usually clear plastic, so you can see the drop of blood as it comes out.

Use soap and water to wash your hands and the area you're going to prick. Rub the site briskly to stimulate blood flow.

If you're pricking an alternate site for the first time, set the needle stick to its greatest depth. This will help you get enough blood on the first try. As you get more confident with the device, you'll find the depth that's best for you.

Press the lancing device cap down until you have a drop of blood that's large enough to test.

Don't use an alternate site for testing if you think your blood sugar level is low, if you've just eaten or taken medication, or you've just exercised. Blood samples from alternate sites are not as accurate as fingertip samples when your blood sugar level is rising or falling quickly.

Hold your hand down to encourage a drop of blood to emerge. If the blood doesn't come out easily, gently squeeze the end of your finger. Avoid touching your skin with the test strip. Instead, touch the drop of blood. The blood will be absorbed by the wicking action of the test strip.

Not all glucose monitors work the same way. To view your results, follow the instructions that come with your monitor.

Have questions about technique? Ask your diabetes educator to review your technique. If you have problems with your glucose monitor, call the manufacturer. Look for the customer service number on the back of the monitor or in the owner's manual.

Record the results of each blood sugar test. You'll need this record when you visit your doctor or other members of your diabetes health care team for checkups. Most diabetes record books include places to record the date, time, medication dose, blood sugar test results and other notes, such as how much you've exercised or whether you've missed a meal.

Some blood sugar monitors track the time and date of each test for you, as well as the result and trends over time. You may even be able to download this information to your computer.

Place the used lancet in a safe container — one that will prevent people from sticking themselves. Lancet disposal boxes are available at health care supply stores and many pharmacies. The type of container shown here is typically found in restrooms at health care facilities. You may also place used lancets in a heavy-duty plastic container, such as an empty laundry detergent bottle. When the container is full, ask your waste management company about proper disposal. Containers with used lancets are considered hazardous waste.

You may want to keep your blood sugar testing supplies in a small carrying case for easy access when you're on the go. Take special care to keep your equipment out of hot or cold places, such as the glove compartment in your car in summer or winter. When you travel, place your medication prescription with your glucose testing kit. Carry these items with you, rather than stowing them in your luggage. Diabetes-related medication, equipment and supplies are permitted through airport security checkpoints.