Using an OnCall Glucometer involves several steps, including preparation, testing, and interpretation of results. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preparation

✅ Gather Supplies

  • OnCall Glucometer
  • Test strips (compatible with the glucometer)
  • Lancing device and lancet
  • Alcohol swabs
  • Cotton ball or tissue

✅ Wash Hands

  • Clean your hands with soap and water.
  • Dry them completely to avoid affecting the results.

✅ Insert the Test Strip

  • Take a test strip and insert it into the glucometer.
  • The device should turn on automatically.

2. Blood Sample Collection

✅ Prepare the Lancing Device

  • Load a new lancet into the lancing device.
  • Adjust the depth setting (lower for thin skin, higher for thicker skin).

✅ Prick the Finger

  • Wipe the fingertip with an alcohol swab and let it dry.
  • Press the lancing device against the side of your fingertip and press the release button.

✅ Collect the Blood Sample

  • Gently squeeze your fingertip to produce a small drop of blood.
  • Touch the blood drop to the edge of the test strip.
  • The glucometer will absorb the blood and start analyzing.

3. Reading and Interpreting Results

✅ Wait for the Reading

  • The glucometer will display the blood glucose level in a few seconds.

✅ Interpret the Result

  • Results are typically shown in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) or mmol/L (millimoles per liter).

Normal Blood Glucose Ranges (for non-diabetics):

  • Fasting (before meals): 70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L)
  • After meals (2 hours post-meal): Less than 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

For diabetics, target ranges may vary based on doctor’s recommendations.

✅ Record Your Results

  • Write down your reading in a logbook or an app.
  • Note the time of the test and any related factors (e.g., meals, medication).

✅ Take Action Based on Results

  • Low blood sugar (<70 mg/dL): Consume fast-acting carbohydrates (e.g., juice, glucose tablets) and recheck after 15 minutes.
  • High blood sugar (>180 mg/dL post-meal): Monitor, drink water, and follow your doctor’s advice.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

✅ Dispose of Used Lancet and Strip

  • Safely discard the used lancet and test strip in a sharps container.

✅ Clean the Glucometer

  • Wipe the glucometer with a dry or slightly damp cloth (avoid alcohol or strong disinfectants).

✅ Store Properly

  • Keep the glucometer and strips in a cool, dry place.
  • Ensure test strips are sealed to prevent damage.

⚠️ Important Notes:

  • Always follow your doctor’s guidelines for glucose monitoring.
  • If results are unusually high or low, repeat the test to confirm.
  • If abnormal readings persist, seek medical advice.