Learning how to check your blood sugar level can help you make good daily decisions about managing your diabetes. This brochure will teach you how to check your blood sugar level.
If you are a health care professional affiliated with an employer, institution, or committee, or practicing in a state that restricts what items you may receive from manufacturers, we ask that you not accept or download any restricted items from this site. If you are a health care provider practicing in Vermont, we are required by state law to deny you permission to download any items or review any journal articles made available on this site.
This information is intended for US Consumers
Checking Your Blood Sugar Level
Checking your blood sugar level can help you make good daily decisions about managing your diabetes. It requires you to stick your finger with a lancet and test your blood with a glucose meter.
Your health care provider will tell you when and how often to check your blood sugar. They will also give you a blood sugar target range.
Try to keep your blood sugar within your target range.
Things You Will Need:
Getting Ready
Step 1 Wash your hands with soap and water, and then dry them; or use an alcohol wipe to clean the finger you will use for the testing site, and let it dry.
Step 2 Remove a test strip from the container and put the cap back on to protect the strips.
Be sure to use a new test strip each time you check your blood sugar.
Step 3 Insert the test strip into your glucose meter.
Step 4 Place a new lancet in your lancet device.
Always use a new lancet every time you check your blood sugar.
Sticking Your Finger
Step 5
Squeezing your finger too hard may give an inaccurate reading.
Testing Your Blood
Step 6
Recording Your Numbers
Step 7 Write the number into your logbook.
Be sure to record:
Follow Up With Your Doctor
Make sure to follow up with your doctor regularly and bring your logbook to all of your doctor appointments.
You and your doctor may need to discuss: