Blood Capillary Glucose

Question 1

Introduction

What equipment do you need

Answer 1

WIPE

Blood glucose monitor
Test strips (check EXP date)
Alcohol swab
Lancets
Gloves
Cotton wool
Sharps bin

Question 2

Describe the steps before you take blood

Answer 2

Patient lying or sitting
Decontaminate hands, put on gloves
Chose side - normally side of finger
Insert test strip into monitor

Question 3

Describe the steps you would take when taking blood

Answer 3

Use lancet to draw blood, immediately dispose in sharps bin
Squeeze finger slightly and collect blood onto strip

Place cotton wool over site

Question 4

What explanation would you provide to the patient

Answer 4

Discuss what the readings mean
Note findings in records

Measure blood glucose

• on waking (5-7)
• before meals (4-7)
• 1-2 hours after meals (5-9)

Symptoms and management of hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia

Question 5

What are the symptoms and signs of hypoglycemia

Management?

Answer 5

Hunger
SNS activation
Confusion, lethargy, coma, seizures

Fast acting glucose

Question 6

What are the symptoms and signs of hyperglycemia

Management?

Answer 6

Increased thirst, dry mouth, urination
Blurred vision
Tiredness
N+V

Insulin
Exercise