Blood Glucose

Question 1

How are blood glucose levels maintained through metabolic homeostasis?

Answer 1

blood glucose levels are tightly controlled by pancreases

Question 2

How is blood glucose measured?

Answer 2

the patient’s finger is pricked to obtain a small amount of blood

this is applied to a test strip and inserted into a hand-held glucometre

the results are given instantly

Question 3

What should be done before starting the procedure?

Answer 3

1. introduce yourself to the patient
2. check the patient ID - ask their name and DOB
3. explain the procedure and gain consent

Question 4

What equipment is required for this procedure?

Answer 4

the blood glucose pack

Question 5

What is the first stage in performing blood glucose?

Answer 5

prime the pen and attach a clean lancet

choose a site on the patient’s finger on the lateral side (furthest from thumb)

Question 6

What should you tell the patient before pricking their finger?

Answer 6

warn the patient what to expect and prick the side of their finger with the lancet

Question 7

What should you do after pricking the patient with the lancet?

Answer 7

ask them to hang their hand downwards and rub their hand to increase blood flow

“milk” the patient’s finger to extract a large drop of blood that will cover the test pad in one go

Question 8

What should be done after extracting a drop of blood from the patient?

Answer 8

hold the test strip in the glucometer against the drop of blood

the strip draws up the appropriate quantity of blood

Question 9

What should be done after applying the blood to the glucometer?

Answer 9

apply pressure to the puncture site and elevate the patient’s finger until the bleeding has stopped

note the reading