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If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, then chances are you are already intimately familiar with medical lancets. This type of equipment is made from surgical steel and comes in a variety of sizes. It is primarily used to get a blood sample from patients for different testing purposes. The gauge of a lancet will determine how large the puncture in the skin will be for. For example, the lower the gauge, the bigger the puncture cut will be. For individuals who are using this equipment for blood sugar testing, a higher gauge is preferred. The higher gauges create a small puncture hole that produces a drop or two of blood, which is ideal for diabetic testing.

Lancets are placed in a device that uses springs to prick the skin and draw blood. There are different types of devices that can be used by individuals who have diabetes and need to test their levels on a regular basis. Some individuals opt to use only the lancet without the help of the spring loaded device to pierce the skin and draw a blood sample. This is much more difficult and if not performed properly can be very painful. (more…)

If you have diabetes, you know that it is important to regularly test your blood glucose level.  Glucometers are designed to help you test your sugar level so that you can take the necessary precautions before it becomes a problem.  Research has found that you can control your diabetes to lead a more normal and happy life.  There are a few things to consider when choosing glucometers.

Glucose meters are one part of a kit that you need to carry with you.  The other parts of the diabetes kit include the lancet and the test strips.  The lancet is a device that is used to prick the finger to obtain a blood sample.  Once you have the sample, it is placed onto the test strip that is inserted into the meter.  The strip wicks the blood, allowing the meter to take a reading.  Some meters now allow you to use blood from other areas of the body such as the leg.  This can be helpful because continued testing on the fingertips can be painful.

An important consideration when choosing between glucometers is the size.  Many new models are quite small and handy for taking with you.  These can be easily carried in the pocket or purse.  If you have trouble reading a small display, you can choose a model with a larger display or one that provides an audible test result.

Most meters are capable of storing at least a small number of previous test results.  It is helpful to compare your test results to those of previous tests.  Some new meters can store a large number of previous test results.  You may be able to download the data to your home computer for future reference.  You’ll also be able to email the data to your doctor for review.

Glucometers range greatly in price.  A basic meter can be quite affordable while the latest meter with all the bells and whistles can be expensive.  Check with your insurance company to see if they cover any portion of the meter.  Your doctor may recommend a meter for your use.  Some meters have an available rebate.  Others may be provided at a low price if you purchase the other parts of the test kit.  You can shop for a meter through an online medical supply company.  The experts will assist you in choosing the meter that best suits your needs and budget.