Component Task: Monitoring Blood Glucose Level

This is the act of checking the amount/concentration of glucose in the blood with the use of a glucometer or blood glucose meter. During the procedure a drop of capillary blood is obtained from any of the fingers or the palmer surface area and dropped on the blood glucose test strip which is attached to the glucose monitor for reading. The normal values for random blood sugar are as follows: a. Adult - 3 – 6mmol/L per litre

Aims

·         Diagnose diabetes

·         Monitor glucose levels

·         Assess therapeutic effect of medication

Requirements

a.      A tray containing the following:

·         Blood glucose monitor/glucometer

·         Test strip

·         Lancet or needle

·         Disposable gloves

·         Cotton wool swab in a gallipot

·         Receiver for used swabs

b.      Sharps container

Steps

1.        Check physicians order for the frequency of monitoring glucose level

2.      Identify patient and establish rapport (Refer to steps)

3.      Explain procedure (Refer to steps)

4.      Perform hand hygiene

5.      Check the functionality of the glucose meter and ensure reading is in mmol/L

6.      Set the tray and send to the bedside

7.       Select the site for glucose check (fingers/palmer area)

8.      Assess the selected site for any cut, callous, scars or rashes (if any is found choose an alternate site)

9.      Insert glucose strip into the glucometer and check for its functionality

10.    Wear disposable glove

11.      Clean the area with antimicrobial solution and allow to dry

12.    Stroke from the base of the finger/palmer area to fill the capillary tube and make the place warm

13.    Puncture the area using lancet or needle

14.    Drop blood on the glucose strip and allow to read

15.    Place dry swab on punctured area applying pressure about fifteen (15) seconds to stop bleeding

16.    After noting the reading on the glucometer remove the strip and dispose off

17.    Remove gloves

18.    Perform hand hygiene

19.    Discuss findings with the patient and appropriate officer

20.  Document on the appropriate recording software and observation chart (manual or electronic)

21.    Dispose off used items, decontaminate tray and place the glucometer in a safe area