Blood sugar testing

Video 24 of 28
5 min 11 sec
English
English
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Blood Sugar Measurement in Triage

Introduction

Blood sugar monitoring is essential, especially for patients with diabetes or those exhibiting symptoms of abnormal blood sugar levels.

Important Points:

  • Blood sugar levels indicate potential medical conditions such as diabetes or hypoglycemia.
  • Proper technique and interpretation are crucial for accurate results.

Procedure

Finger Selection:

  • Avoid using the middle, index, or thumb fingers for blood sugar testing.
  • Select a less commonly used finger to minimize infection risk.

Cleaning:

  • Use water instead of alcohol to clean the finger to avoid affecting the reading.
  • Avoid touching the end of the blood sugar strip to maintain accuracy.

Blood Collection:

  • Use a lancet to create a small puncture on the selected finger.
  • Wipe away the initial blood sample and collect the second drop for testing.

Measurement:

  • Insert the blood sugar strip into the meter to initiate testing.
  • Observe the display for the blood sugar reading.

Interpretation

Normal Range:

  • Ideal blood sugar levels range from 4 to 8 mmol/L.
  • Values below 4 indicate hypoglycemia and may require immediate intervention.
  • Values above 8 may indicate hyperglycemia and potential diabetes onset.

Considerations:

  • Assess patient history and current condition for context.
  • Food intake prior to testing may affect readings.

Conclusion

Accurate blood sugar measurement is vital for diagnosing and managing various medical conditions. Proper technique and interpretation ensure effective patient care.