Is Your Blood Sugar Accuracy on Point? Here's What You Need to Know

🩸Your blood sugar readings can vary depending on factors like the amount of blood on the test strip and the cleanliness of your hands.

📏Glucometers are considered accurate as long as the readings fall within a certain range, but they may not match lab results.

💧Make sure to use enough blood on the test strip to get accurate results, and avoid expired test strips.

🤲Wash and dry your hands before testing to prevent any substances from affecting your blood sugar readings.

🔄Do multiple tests and take an average if the results are close, or do three tests to triangulate if they are far apart.

Why can my blood sugar readings be different on different meters?

—Different meters may give different readings due to factors such as the amount of blood on the test strip, calibration differences, and technological variations.

Can expired test strips affect blood sugar readings?

—Expired test strips may give inaccurate readings. It's important to check the expiration date and use fresh test strips for accurate results.

Should I always use my dominant hand for blood sugar testing?

—Using your dominant hand is not mandatory, but consistency is important. Choose the hand you feel most comfortable with and stick to it for consistent results.

Can lotions or substances on my hands affect blood sugar readings?

—Yes, lotions or substances on your hands can interfere with blood sugar readings. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and dry them before testing.

How do I know if my glucometer is giving accurate readings?

—To verify the accuracy of your glucometer, you can compare its readings with lab tests or use control solution provided by the manufacturer. Consult your healthcare provider for more guidance.

00:00Introduction: Learn the importance of accurate blood sugar readings and how they affect diabetes management.

01:00The speaker shares her personal experience with managing blood sugars using a glucometer and continuous glucose monitor (CGM).

01:58Demonstration: Different readings can be obtained depending on the amount of blood on the test strip.

02:26Comparison of readings from two different meters, highlighting variations.

02:53The impact of substances on hands, such as fruit juice or lotion, on blood sugar readings.

03:23Factors that can affect blood sugar readings, including expired test strips and substances on hands.

04:08Explanation of accuracy ranges for glucometers and what is considered acceptable.

06:00Tips for getting more accurate blood sugar readings: wash and dry hands properly, do multiple tests for an average result, and use enough blood on the test strip.