8 Factors You Should Consider Before Buying A Glucose Meter

A glucose meter is a medical device that is used to determine the concentration of glucose in the blood. A glucose monitor is given to patients who need to monitor their blood glucose levels at home, and is used most commonly by patients with diabetes. The patient must use a lancet in order to produce a small amount of blood, which is then fed into the meter to calculate the glucose level. Glucose monitors come in a number of different shapes and sizes, and there are nine different factors that should be considered before buying a glucose meter.

#1 Size
The average size of a blood glucose meter is about the size of the palm of the hand, but they can be found in many different sizes. All monitors are battery powered, which makes it very simple to take on the go. Because glucose monitors are meant to be portable, it is important to purchase one that will be easy to include in your everyday belongings. Some can be kept in a small pouch or purse, while others can be put away in a jacket or pants pocket. Buying a bulky monitor may make it hard to bring with you everywhere you go, so consider this when purchasing your glucose monitor.

#2 Test Strips

In order to measure the glucose levels in the blood, an element containing chemicals that react with glucose must be present. Most glucose monitors use small plastic test strips, which include glucose oxidase. Because each strip can only be used once, the price of the strips that each monitor requires should be considered. Some monitors can use different brands of strips, while others require only name brands that can be somewhat pricey.

#3 Volume of Blood Sample

The volume of the blood sample varies from monitor to monitor, but most only require a small drop of blood. Older models normally require more blood, while technology makes it possible for newer models to only use the smallest amount possible. Because some patients do not bleed well, it is important to look for a monitor that does not require a great amount of blood. Glucose monitors that only require a small amount of blood will lower the frequency of pricks being repeated.

#4 Alternative Site Testing

The majority of glucose monitors use blood from a fingertip, yet newer models offer alternative site testing. Less sensitive areas such as the forearms or thighs can produce the same amount of blood as a fingertip, but do not bruise as easily. Pricking the same fingertip can be somewhat painful over time, but being able to test in alternative areas will leave the skin less sensitive. Not all monitors can read glucose levels from areas other than the fingertip, so make sure and read the information about the monitor if you are interested in testing in alternative locations.

#5 Testing Times

It takes different models different times to display the glucose level in the blood, and most can read the level within 5 to 60 seconds. If testing your glucose level will to be something that needs to be done quickly, a monitor that can provide results quickly would work best. Advances in technology have made it possible for monitors to get results quicker, so look for newer monitors rather than older ones if time is going to be a factor for you.

#6 Display
All glucose monitors contain a display, which will show the result for the glucose levels in the blood. The come in a number of different sizes and styles, some of which are easy to read. Older patients who have difficultly seeing small print should opt for a larger display, but this will make the monitor larger overall. Most displays will contain a backlight, which will make it easy to test your blood even when there is not a good light source around. The display will also include information such as the time, date, and past results. Make sure that you purchase a monitor that contains a display that is easy to read, and incorporates all of the elements you need for your blood glucose monitor.

#7 Memory

Because all monitors include a clock and the date, they can also store memory of past readings. This is important to be able to look at past results to determine what may have caused a rise or drop in glucose levels, as well as being able to check up on your progress. Different monitors can store different amounts of memory, which can play a huge role for each individual patient. If you are planning on keeping track of your glucose readings over a long period of time, you should consider a monitor that includes a great amount of memory. Those who do not need to look at past readings can opt for a monitor with less memory, since they normally cost less.

#8 Data Transfer

Many new meters are now able to transfer data to a computer, which makes it possible for a doctor to view. Not all meters have this capability, so this should be looked for if your doctor requires it. The data can also be transferred to a home computer, which can help in keeping track of glucose results to help determine a health plan of action. Although this luxury is not a requirement, it can be very helpful in tracking the progress of a diabetes patient.

All of these factors should be considered when looking to purchase a glucose monitor, because they are medical tools that are used frequently. Glucose monitors are very important for diabetes patients and others who must monitor their glucose levels; therefore it should fit each patient’s personal requirements. Your primary care physician or local pharmacist will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding a glucose monitor.

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