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How often should I test my blood glucose?
What is an ideal blood glucose level?
How do you get enough blood for a test?
How often should I test my blood glucose?
Results of the 10-year Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) proved that keeping your blood glucose level as close to normal as possible can reduce the risk of complications involving the eyes, kidneys and nervous system by up to 60 percent. How often you test is best decided by you and your healthcare professional. It may vary according to your age, the type of diabetes you have, any medication you are using, whether you are ill, and any physical or emotional changes in your life.
Learn more about blood glucose monitoring. 
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What is an ideal blood glucose level?
Because a variety of factors impact blood glucose levels, target ranges are different for different people. Your health care professionals can help you set realistic target levels for your own diabetes management. Here are some general guidelines for people with diabetes according to the American Diabetes Association:
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ADA Goals For Blood Glucose Control* |
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Measurement |
Goal |
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Pre-meal glucose (mg / dL) |
90-130 |
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Post-meal glucose (mg / dL) |
<180 |
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Bedtime glucose (mg / dL) |
100 - 120 |
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A1c (%) |
<7 |
Learn more about blood glucose monitoring.
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How do I get enough blood for a test?
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Wash your hands with soap and warm water, and dry them thoroughly. Warm water stimulates the flow of blood to the fingers. Hanging your arm down at your side for 10-15 seconds before the finger stick will also help. If you use alcohol to clean your finger, make sure it dries before pricking your finger. |
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Choose a different spot on the side of a finger each time you test. Repeated punctures in the same spot can make your finger sore and callused. Avoid pricking your fingertips. As an alternative, the OneTouch® Ultra Test Strips and the OneTouch® FastTake® Test Strips with FastDraw™ Design allows people to test their blood glucose using samples from their arm.* |
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Hold the OneTouch® UltraSoft (or PENLET® Plus) Blood Sampler firmly against the side of the finger, with the cap resting on the finger. (The harder you press the deeper the puncture.) |
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Press the release button. |
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Squeeze the finger gently to obtain a drop of blood. |
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Proceed with the blood glucose test. |
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