Blood glucose monitor quality control tests
The following quality control tests can assure you that your meter is working properly:
- Test using a control solution. Follow your typical blood-testing procedure, but use a liquid control solution instead of blood. These solutions usually come with your monitor and are available at most drugstores and pharmacies. Follow package directions.Use liquid control solutions every time you open a new container of test strips, and then use the solutions occasionally as you use the strips. You generally should also use liquid control solutions if you drop your blood glucose meter, or whenever you get unusual results.
- Match your reading with lab results. Take the blood glucose monitor along when you visit your health care provider or have an appointment for lab work. Check your blood sugar level with your meter at the same time that blood is drawn for lab tests, being sure to use a fingerstick sample, not blood from the blood draw. Then compare your meter’s reading with the lab results. Results that are within 15% of the lab reading are considered accurate.
If your meter isn’t working properly, contact the manufacturer of your meter and test strips.
