Learning About Checking Your Blood Sugar

Gather the things you need.

These often include the meter, needle (lancet) and lancet holder, test strips, and cotton balls. Check the expiration date of your test strips.

Learn how to use the glucometer.

Read any instructions you were given. Know how your meter works.

If your meter has numbers, make sure they match.

If the numbers on your meter and your test strips don't match, follow your meter's instructions for changing the code number. You may need to get different test strips.

Wash your hands.

Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands well with a clean towel.

Use a clean lancet.

If you use a lancet holder, place the lancet inside. The holder controls how deeply the lancet goes into your skin.

Get the test strip ready.

Follow the instructions to prepare your meter to receive the blood sample.

Poke the side of your finger with the lancet.

You can use any finger.

Test a small sample of your blood.

Touch the drop of blood with the correct spot of the test strip. Get enough blood to cover the test area on the strip.

Stop any bleeding.

If your finger keeps bleeding, use a clean cotton ball to apply pressure to your fingertip.

Record your results and when you did the test.

Some meters may save your results for you. Recording your results helps you and your doctor know how your treatment is working.