Identification

• A glucose monitor checks the level of sugar in the blood. The reading is real time information valuable to diabetics, for it lets them know if their sugar is too low or too high. It also helps them monitor sugar because they can analyze the numbers by comparing them to different times of day, the effects of different foods and the results of different activities. There are two types of blood glucose monitors: monitors requiring lancets and continuous monitors. Continuous monitoring systems (CGM) use a sensor that diabetics place under their skin. This allows them to receive real-time information in 1- to 5-minute intervals. The lancet monitoring device requires a lancet, or needle, which they use to prick their finger. They then use the glucose meter to read the droplet of blood.
  
  

Lancet System

• The lancet device holds the lancet or needle the diabetic uses to prick the finger. How to test the blood glucose with the lancet device is simple. First, wash your hands with warm water. Apply an alcohol pad to the fleshy tip of the finger you wish to prick and let dry. Cock the lancet device to set the needle and then place it on the side of the finger. Push the button to release the needle. The result is a droplet of blood after you gently squeeze your finger. Place a test strip in the glucose meter and touch the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood. The test strip will draw in the blood, and the glucose meter will read the level of sugar on the meter's display. It takes less than 5 seconds for the meter to read the numbers, which are measured as milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL. Some monitors have optional software so you can download the data onto your computer.
  
  

CGM

• The CGM, or continuous glucose monitoring system, is more expensive than the lancet device system, but it does allow for better sugar control because of the continuous feedback. You place the sensor/transmitter under the skin, such as the arm. Replace it once or twice a week. The transmitter sends blood sugar levels to your monitor that you wear on a belt or carry. The monitor allows you to set an alarm so that the system alerts you when blood sugar is too high or too low. Software is available for easy download into your computer. You can graph your blood sugar levels and analyze averages. The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved three monitoring systems at this time. Abbott, DexCom and Medtronic are the manufacturers. Your doctor may not decide to have you use the CGM unless your blood sugar is erratic.