The glucose meter is an electronic device that allows diabetic patients to self-check their blood sugar.
It uses lancets and test strips to absorb little blood, and the device will identify the current blood glucose level.
One should choose wisely from among the hundreds of glucose meter brands.
Gadget Size Most meters are as large as standard mobile phones, while others are smaller.
It is convenient to have one that is easy to grip, and easy to fit in the bag or pocket.
A diabetes patient must test at least 3 times a day so portability is important.
Blood Sample Requirement To produce accurate results, testers need a definite amount of blood for analyzing.
Many patients want to shed as little blood as possible.
Sample size of different brands usually range from 0.
3 to 1 milliliter.
There are some special models that demand even less blood.
Generally, the amount of blood drop is related to the size of the meter.
Depth of Lancet Piercing For most patients, pain is equal to the depth of piercing.
Many glucose meter brands designed their lancet notches to be adjustable.
The customizable depth of piercing is convenient especially for smaller children.
Support for Alternate Site Testing The blood sample is usually taken from the fingertips but some have developed hypersensitivity to pain in their fingers.
You may want to purchase models that recognize blood from calves, thighs and arms.
These are less sensitive parts of the body.
However, it must be with the approval of the doctor.
Storage and Log Capability A modern glucose meter can store at least a hundred testing data.
The devices may have built-in memories or card expandable storage.
Choose one that can create logs and communicate data through computer USB.
Logs are important tools for doctors to prepare necessary treatment programs.
It uses lancets and test strips to absorb little blood, and the device will identify the current blood glucose level.
One should choose wisely from among the hundreds of glucose meter brands.
Gadget Size Most meters are as large as standard mobile phones, while others are smaller.
It is convenient to have one that is easy to grip, and easy to fit in the bag or pocket.
A diabetes patient must test at least 3 times a day so portability is important.
Blood Sample Requirement To produce accurate results, testers need a definite amount of blood for analyzing.
Many patients want to shed as little blood as possible.
Sample size of different brands usually range from 0.
3 to 1 milliliter.
There are some special models that demand even less blood.
Generally, the amount of blood drop is related to the size of the meter.
Depth of Lancet Piercing For most patients, pain is equal to the depth of piercing.
Many glucose meter brands designed their lancet notches to be adjustable.
The customizable depth of piercing is convenient especially for smaller children.
Support for Alternate Site Testing The blood sample is usually taken from the fingertips but some have developed hypersensitivity to pain in their fingers.
You may want to purchase models that recognize blood from calves, thighs and arms.
These are less sensitive parts of the body.
However, it must be with the approval of the doctor.
Storage and Log Capability A modern glucose meter can store at least a hundred testing data.
The devices may have built-in memories or card expandable storage.
Choose one that can create logs and communicate data through computer USB.
Logs are important tools for doctors to prepare necessary treatment programs.