COMPARING METER AND LABORATORY RESULTS

The blood glucose test result you obtain from your meter may be different from your laboratory result due to normal variation; however, the two results should be within 20% of each other.5 To make an accurate comparison between meter and laboratory results, follow these guidelines.

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 more accurate if you have not eaten for at least four hours (and preferably eight hours) prior to doing the comparative tests.

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.

Never use your meter with blood that has been placed in a gray-top test tube.

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Lifescan Basic Blood Glucose Monitoring System Comparing Meter and Laboratory Results, Take your meter with you to the lab