How to Check Your Blood Sugar at Home
A simple guide to checking blood glucose with a glucometer, recording the result and using the readings during diabetes follow-up.
What you can do
Instructions
Before checking
- Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them well.
- Prepare your glucometer, test strip and lancet.
- Check that the test strips have not expired.
- Follow the instructions provided with your glucose meter.
Take the reading
- Insert the test strip into the glucometer.
- Use the lancet to prick the side of your fingertip.
- Gently obtain a drop of blood.
- Apply the blood to the test strip as instructed.
- Wait for the glucometer to display the result.
- Dispose of the lancet safely.
Record the result
If you are monitoring your blood glucose regularly, record:
- Date
- Time
- Blood glucose reading
- Whether the reading was fasting, before a meal or after a meal
- Any relevant symptoms
- Medicines taken, if relevant
A record makes it easier for your clinician to identify patterns and assess your treatment.
Important
Do not change or stop your diabetes medication based on an individual reading unless your healthcare provider has given you instructions for doing so.
If your blood glucose is repeatedly very high or very low, or you develop symptoms such as confusion, severe weakness, vomiting or loss of consciousness, seek medical attention.
