It is best to use a meter

You can use a meter to measure the blood glucose level. There are a number of different meters for this test and from time to time new meters are introduced or old ones upgraded. It is well worth while looking at each of these and discussing how they work with an expert. Diabetes educators are usually aware of the range of meters available and some specialist pharmacists stock a range and can explain them to you. You can also see the range in diabetes clinics and at Diabetes Australia. All of the meters operate on the same principle: they measure the strength of colour that is developed on the test strip and convert it to a blood glucose value. They have a timing mechanism to make sure that the blood is on the strip for the correct time and that the test is read at the correct time. They tell you the result by a digital readout.

You can estimate the blood glucose value without a meter.

Some test strips (the Boehringer BM Glycemie 20/800, Hypo-guard GA, and the AMES Glucostix) can be used without a meter. You have to time the test yourself accurately with a watch, wiping off the blood exactly on time, and then waiting a further 60 seconds for BM 20/800 or 30 seconds for Glucostix before comparing the colour with blocks printed on the container. This method is convenient to use when you are travelling or camping or if you want to do a check at school or work. It is a useful standby if your meter is being serviced. Some people find it difficult to read the test accurately and it must be done in good light.

Why get a meter if it’s not necessary?

Most people with diabetes and parents of children with diabetes have said they much prefer using a meter. It is more accurate and easier to read, especially at very low and very high ranges. The meter has a timing device and this is valuable as most young people tend to become careless at times and just glance at a watch. Older patients who have trouble with vision, may find strips difficult to read visually, a meter is then very helpful.

The main disadvantage is the price. This may not seem so much if you realize that you should get many years of use and hundreds of tests a year. If you do have difficulty affording a meter, some diabetes clinics can lend you one for a while. Sometimes a service club or other organization will help you purchase one. Some health insurance companies refund part or all of the cost.

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