Blood sugar is always inaccurate, 9 details to pay attention to

Inaccuracies in blood sugar readings can arise due to numerous factors affecting both the testing process and individual health status. Below are nine critical aspects to consider when monitoring blood sugar:

1. Disinfectant Water Residue: Wiping the skin with alcohol before testing can lead to diluted blood samples and lower readings due to residual alcohol and water. Allow the skin to dry completely before pricking.

2. Shallow Finger Prick: Insufficient depth of the prick can result in inadequate blood flow, potentially leading to oxidation of glucose or dilution by tissue fluid, causing inaccuracies.

3. Blood Collection Site Selection: Choose the right location for blood sampling, ideally the ring finger, avoiding sites near intravenous infusions, and ensuring adequate blood flow.

4. Blood Collection Technique: Use natural blood flow and avoid excessive squeezing, as this can distort the results. Let the hand hang down for a minute before collecting blood.

5. Health Conditions Impact: Certain health conditions like polycythemia, dehydration, hypotension, or anemia can alter the relationship between peripheral and venous blood glucose levels.

6. Drug Interactions: Certain medications and substances, such as high doses of vitamin C, can interfere with readings. Intravenous fluids can also affect local blood sugar levels.

7. Psychological State: Emotional stress can elevate blood sugar temporarily, potentially leading to inaccurate readings. Ensure a calm state before testing.

8. Meter and Strip Quality: Proper maintenance and calibration of the blood glucose meter, along with storage in a suitable environment (10-40°C and 20%-80% humidity), are essential. Test strips must match the meter, be stored correctly, and used within their expiration date.

9. Testing Timing and Technique: Accurate timing is critical for fasting and post-meal tests. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application of blood to the test strip, ensuring neither too much nor too little blood is applied.

Regular cleaning and calibration of the meter, careful handling of test strips, and consistency in testing practices are all crucial for obtaining accurate blood sugar readings. It is also essential to communicate with healthcare professionals regarding unusual results or changing health conditions to ensure proper diabetes management.