How to Check Your Blood Glucose - dummies

By American Diabetes Association

Part of Managing Type 2 Diabetes For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Checking your blood glucose when you have type 2 diabetes requires pricking your finger and using a blood glucose meter to get a reading. Many people are intimidated by the idea of using a blood glucose meter, especially when they’re first diagnosed. But it takes only seconds once you get the hang of it.

Follow these six simple steps to check your blood glucose:

  1. Wash and dry your hands.
  2. Insert a test strip into your meter.
  3. Use a lancing device to prick the side of your finger and draw a small sample of blood.
  4. Hold your finger to the test strip.
  5. Wait for the reading.
  6. When the reading displays, record it or use it to take appropriate action.