Keys to accurate testing

Blood glucose meters are usually accurate and precise. However, to avoid any incorrect readings you will want to make sure you perform each step correctly.

How can you be sure you are using your meter correctly? That's easy: just bring your meter to your doctor's office. Do a blood glucose check minutes before or after your doctor draws blood from your vein. Then compare your results with your doctor's. Ask your doctor or diabetes care team how close your meter reading should be to the level reported by the lab, and have them watch you do the testing.

Problems with your meter readings? Here's how to get help. If your blood glucose readings don't seem to be accurate, ask yourself these questions:

Is your test strip outdated?
Is your meter calibrated (set up for) your current box of strips?
Have your strips been in very hot or very cold temperatures?
Have you been sure to keep them in a dry, airtight container?

If you have any of these problems, throw the strips away and get a new bottle. Make sure to check the code on the strip bottle.

There are other potential problems:

Is the drop of blood too small?
Are you using the correct technique?
Is your meter dirty?

If you're not sure about the answer to any of the questions above, talk to your doctor or a member of your diabetes care team. They can guide you with your technique and check to see that your meter is working the right way. They can also show you how to clean the meter.

To find out about InDuo™, the first combined blood glucose monitoring and insulin dosing system, call the Novo Nordisk^® customer service department at 1 800-727-6500. InDuo™ combines two essential daily activities into one compact and discreet device.