Understanding blood glucose equipment

Blood glucose meters 

Blood glucose meters are small, portable devices used to check and display blood glucose readings. They may be battery operated or rechargeable. Although there are a variety of blood glucose meters available, they all work in much the same way. 

Some do have additional features such as larger screen displays, or audible blood glucose results, or ketone checking. It is a good idea to chat with your diabetes health team about which features are most useful for you.  

You may be eligible to access a free blood glucose meter as part of your NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme) registration. People who are registered with the NDSS should choose a meter from this link.These meters use test strips that are subsidised by the NDSS and will cost you less. 

Blood glucose meters can also be purchased through your local pharmacy, online from the Diabetes Shop Link or directly from a meter company.  

Blood test strips 

Blood test strips form part of the process of analysing the amount of glucose in the blood. One end of the test strip is designed to be inserted into the meter, while the other end of the test strip is designed to take up a small drop of blood for analysis.   This process usually takes a few seconds. Sometimes it can be hard to work out which end of the strip goes into the meter, so ask your healthcare professional or pharmacists to show you. 

A new test strip is required for each blood glucose check and test strips are meter/brand specific, so make sure you know which meter you are using when purchasing blood test strips at the pharmacy. 

Correct storage of blood glucose test strips 

It is important to store blood glucose test strips properly to ensure accurate readings. 

• Temperature control: Store strips at room temperature (4˚C to 30˚C) and   avoid extreme temperatures. 

• Original container: Keep strips in their original container to protect them from moisture and contamination. 

• Expiry date: Always check the expiration date; using expired strips can lead to inaccurate readings. 

• Handle with clean hands: Avoid touching the test strip's chemical pad to prevent contamination. 

Lancet Devices/Finger Pricker 

A lancet device is a small pen-like device that holds a lancet (a small metal needle). The device is used to prick the skin so a small drop of blood can be placed on the end of the blood test strip. Most lancet devices are adjustable to better control the depth of the puncture to minimise pain.  

Tips for using lancet devices: 

• Wash hands with soap and water and dry well before using a lancet device as this avoids contamination and inaccurate readings.  

• Make sure your finger is warm; this increases blood flow to the area. 

• Position the needle end of the lancet device on the side of the finger rather than the fingertip. This helps to prevent nerve damage to the tip of the finger.  

• Replace the lancet after each use to minimise pain and damage to the skin. New lancets can be purchased at pharmacies or ordered online. 

• Change lancets according to instructions and dispose of them into a sharp's container. 

• Rotate which fingers are used for finger pricks to help protect the fingertips from excess damage.  

Trouble shooting blood glucose meters 

If you are having trouble with your meter or are concerned it is not working properly, consider the following: 

• Battery checks: Ensure the batteries are working and replace them as needed or recharge your meter as indicated. 

• Cleaning: Keep the monitor clean and dry, especially the test strip port. 

• Calibration: Some BGMs need to be calibrated with new batches of test strips 

• Test strip integrity: Check that test strips are not expired or damaged and have been stored properly. 

• Control solutions: Use control solutions, which are liquids with known glucose concentrations, to check if your monitor provides accurate readings.  Contact the customer service line for your meter for assistance. 

• User manual: Refer to the user manual for specific troubleshooting steps. 

If these steps do not fix the problem, then contact the manufacturer for a replacement meter.  

When to replace or upgrade your blood glucose meter: 

• Inaccuracy: Repeated inaccurate readings even after troubleshooting. 

• Age: Most monitors last around 5 years; but check the manufacturer’s guidelines in the user manual. 

• Physical damage: Any visible damage or malfunction in the device.   

As mentioned, checking blood glucose can be beneficial in managing your diabetes. However, accuracy of readings is going to depend on making sure the equipment is well maintained. 

Techniques are also important - do not guess how to use everything, make sure you see a healthcare professional for guidance and a demonstration. 

For further information you can visit the NDSS Website or call the NDSS Helpline. 

Find out more about diabetes technology, updating your device and general diabetes technology on the Diabetes Victoria Tech Hub.