Every day new people are being diagnosed with diabetes. They are being told that they must learn to draw their own blood, run tests and learn to use new kinds of medical equipment, and that all of this needs to be done correctly, their life may depend on it. While they are learning to use the life saving supplies, they also must learn to properly care for these devises. Below is some useful information for the new diabetic, as always, if you have any questions, call your doctor immediately.



When you are learning to care for your meter, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. These are sensitive devises; all of them, no matter the brand can, and will be damaged from a drop or by simply being jarred around. Do not ever leave your meter in a car; these types of machines cannot be exposed to the hot or cold temperatures that are experienced in a closed car. Be sure to clean and change the batteries in your meter as suggested in the manual.

The most important care tip for the testing strips is to keep them away from humidity. This type of exposure can cause them to be ineffective in your daily battle against diabetes. It is best that they are not stored in a bathroom for this reason. Also, make sure to replace the top of the bottle that the strips come in immediately upon removing one for testing.

The most common blood sugar testing supplies that are used are the meters, lancets and strips. Every one of these items requires a different course of action in regards to its care and maintenance. The most important step is to carefully read the manufactures suggestions for care and use.

It is also a very good idea to make sure that your meter is working correctly. The easiest way to do this is in the doctor's office. When the doctor takes blood to run his tests, you should also run a blood sugar test using your equipment. If your numbers are the same as your doctors‘, you know that your supplies are accurate.

The most important reason to learn how to take care of your blood sugar testing supplies is that the information that they provide to you will be used to determine your course of treatment. Any reading that is off because the equipment wasn't correctly taken care of could affect the information that is given, therefore affecting the care that you receive.

As with any type of medical issue, it is very important to keep in close contact with your physician. If you have any questions as to the use or accuracy of your blood sugar testing supplies, give them a call. They will be able to help you figure out what needs to be done to resolve any issues that you may be having.