A finger stick glucose test measures the amount of glucose, or sugar, in a person’s blood. This quick procedure provides an immediate snapshot of blood sugar levels. It involves obtaining a small blood sample from the fingertip, which is then analyzed by a portable device. This test helps individuals gain insight into their metabolic health.
Purpose of the Test
Monitoring blood glucose levels provides important information for managing various health conditions. The finger stick test helps individuals with diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational) track blood sugar throughout the day. Regularly checking glucose levels aids in adjusting medication, diet, and physical activity to maintain optimal health. It also helps identify episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). Recognizing these fluctuations helps prevent complications.
Performing the Test
Performing a finger stick glucose test involves several steps and specific equipment.
You will need:
A glucose meter
Test strips
A lancing device
Lancets
An alcohol swab
First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, then dry them completely. Residual food or water can affect the reading. Insert a fresh test strip into your glucose meter to turn it on, and load a new lancet into the lancing device.
Choose a finger, avoiding the thumb and index finger. Prick the side of the fingertip rather than the center, as this area has fewer nerve endings and is less painful. Press the lancing device against the chosen site to create a small blood drop.
Gently “milk” the finger from the base towards the tip to encourage a sufficient blood sample, without squeezing too aggressively. Touch the edge of the test strip to the blood drop, allowing it to wick the blood into the strip. Wait for the meter to display the result. Finally, dispose of the used lancet in a sharps container and the test strip in regular waste.
Understanding Your Results
Once the glucose meter displays a reading, understanding these numbers is important for health management. For individuals without diabetes, a normal fasting blood glucose level typically ranges between 70 and 99 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). A fasting level between 100 and 125 mg/dL generally indicates prediabetes, suggesting a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. A fasting blood glucose level of 126 mg/dL or higher usually leads to a diagnosis of diabetes.
After eating, blood sugar levels naturally rise. For most adults with diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) suggests a target of less than 180 mg/dL two hours after meals. Readings above this level, or generally above 125 mg/dL when fasting, are considered hyperglycemia, which can occur if the body has insufficient insulin or cannot use it effectively. Conversely, a blood sugar level below 70 mg/dL is typically considered hypoglycemia, which can cause symptoms such as shakiness or confusion. It is important to discuss your individual target ranges and any unusual readings with a healthcare provider, as personal health factors influence these guidelines.