Blood Glucose

Question 1

What is the regulation of blood glucose levels through metabolic homeostasis tightly controlled by?

Answer 1

The pancreas

Question 2

How is blood glucose measured?

Answer 2

It is measured by pricking the patient’s finger to obtain a small amount of blood which is applied to a test strip and inserted into a hand held device called a glucometre.

The results are given instantly.

Question 3

When is blood glucose testing regularly performed?

Answer 3

In diabetes and a variety of other illness states where blood glucose is affected.

Question 4

What should your introduction consist of?

Answer 4

Introduce yourself to the patient

Check patient ID: Ask patient their name and DOB (don’t rely on wrist band details if the patient is able to converse with you)

Explain the procedure and gain consent

Question 5

What equipment is needed?

Answer 5

Blood glucose pack

Question 6

How should equipment be prepared?

Answer 6

1. Get a test strip and place it in the unit, making sure the code that comes up is the same code that is on the side of the test strips
2. Check lancet is primed prior to use (by pressing clear plastic end in)
3. Attach disposable needle to end

Question 7

How is blood glucose performed?

Answer 7

1. Warn the patient what to expect and prick the side of patient’s finger with the lancet
2. Ask the patient to hang their hand downwards and rub their hand to increase blood flow if necessary
3. Press lancet onto side of finger to produce a drop of blood
4. “Milk” the patient’s finger to extract a large drop of blood, sufficient to cover the test pad in one go (if needed)
5. Hold the test strip in the glucometer against the drop of blood. The strip will draw up the appropriate quantity of blood

Question 8

While the glucometer calculates a reading, what should you do?

Answer 8

Apply pressure to puncture site and elevate the patient’s finger.

Note the reading.