Optional , EMT

Course Objectives•Indications for Use•Proper Technique•Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

IndicationsAltered Mental StatusPatients with a history of diabetesDiabetic patients with medical or trauma

emergencies

Equipment

Protective gloves & eyewearTissue or gauze padsAlcohol wipesFingerstick lancetsChemical reagent strips (must match monitor)Electronic blood glucose meter

TechniqueBSIClean fingertip with alcohol wipe (allow to dry)Follow manufacturer’s instructionsUse triggered fingertip lancet to side of fingerRecord reading and time of testRemove strip & dispose of strip & lancet

properly

DO’s and DON’TsMatch code on

device to stripGet an adequate

sample sizeRecap reagent stripsDispose of lancet in

sharps containerFollow

manufacturer’s specific instructions

Reuse lancets or reagent strips

Touch target area of strip

Use lancet before alcohol is dry

Forget to calibrate device if needed

Use outdated strips

Pitfalls & TroubleshootingFollow manufacturer’s instructions for routine

maintenance, calibration, and battery replacement

Use correct control solution and test strips for the model of the device

Let alcohol dry before using lancetCompletely cover target area of strip with a

single drop of bloodSee user’s manual for troubleshooting tips

Treatment

Blood Glucose levels below 70Follow Hypoglycemia protocol for your level

Glucagonper local Med Control

 

Skill OverviewBSISelect and prep siteCollect and place

specimenGlucometer readingChartingTreatment

SummaryIndicated for altered mental status or known

diabetic patients with illness or injuryBSIPrep site with alcohol wipeUse lancet to obtain sampleTransfer blood to reagent stripInsert in monitorRecord results and use for differential

diagnosis