and your physical and emotional health. Your own motivation is a key factor in the number of tests you do each day. Your healthcare professional will guide you. After you decide when and how often you should test, it is important that you make testing part of your daily routine.
Comparing Meter and Laboratory Results
The blood glucose test result you obtain from your meter may be differ- ent from your laboratory result due to normal variation; however, the two results should be within 20% of each other.6 To make an accurate compari- son between meter and laboratory
results, follow the guidelines below:
Before you go to the lab:
■Make sure your meter is clean.
■Perform check strip and control solution tests to make sure the meter is working properly.
■Comparisons will be best if you are fasting or have not eaten for at least four hours.
■Take your meter with you to the lab.
While at the lab:
■Make sure that both tests are done within 15 minutes of each other.
■Wash your hands before obtaining a blood sample.
RESULTS
49