Blood Glucose Monitoring

Testing the blood or urine of a person with diabetes to help maintain the amount of glucose in the blood within reasonable limits. Usually, a drop of blood (obtained by pricking the finger) is placed on a small test-strip that is inserted into a blood glucose meter. The meter calculates and displays the blood glucose level in (mg/dl) milligrams per deciliter unit of measurement. Testing the blood for glucose several times a day serves as an effective guide for proper management. Many people with diabetes test before each meal. A blood test taken before eating (pre-absorptive or fasting) or after eating (postprandial) to determine the level of glucose in the blood. Normal blood glucose is usually from 100mg/dl to 160mg/dl.