Pharmacie Kennedy Mulhouse

Finger-prick glucose: why wash and dry your hands before measuring?

Fingers and test strips can affect a reading. Check the technique for glucose monitoring already prescribed to you.

Editorial illustration of a health discussion; it does not depict the pharmacy’s actual premises.
Editorial illustration — Kennedy Pharmacy Mulhouse

General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.

A finger-prick glucose reading also depends on sampling technique. These steps concern monitoring already agreed with your doctor.

Before pricking, wash your hands with soap and water, rinse and dry with a clean towel. Disinfectant gel can distort the reading.

Check the expiry date of test strips and keep them dry. Follow your meter’s instructions: steps vary between models.

A drop that is too small or too large, or excessive squeezing of the finger, can affect the result. Ask someone to check your technique.

Record the reading, time and circumstances in your diary. Your doctor sets the frequency and action to take for the results.

Keep those instructions accessible with your equipment. Discuss difficulties measuring with the team looking after your diabetes.

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