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A blood glucose fingerstick measurement is a procedure that involves pricking the finger with a lancet to obtain a small sample of blood for testing glucose levels.
The most common usage of blood glucose testing is managing and monitoring the blood sugar levels of clients with diabetes. Frequent monitoring can prevent both short-term complications (like diabetic ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic unawareness) and long-term health problems (like heart disease or kidney disease).
Other situations where blood glucose tests are also appropriate include:
After performing a fingerstick for blood glucose assessment, you should remove the test strip from the glucometer, dispose of used supplies in an appropriate waste-basket or sharps container, remove gloves and perform hand hygiene, and document the procedure and results.
You should not squeeze the finger pad to express more blood. Instead, use a warm compress to dilate capillaries, if needed.
The signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia include anxiety/confusion, tingling, diaphoresis, tachycardia, and tremors.
If a client is symptomatic with hypoglycemia, a simple carb (juice) should be given to a conscious client, and IM glucagon should be given to a client unable to take PO.
The signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia include fatigue, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting, thirst, and fruity breath.
If a client is symptomatic with hyperglycemia, IV fluid resuscitation and IV insulin should be initiated.
Normal fasting blood glucose levels are usually between 70 and 100 mg/dL. Postprandial (after meal) levels should be less than 140 mg/dL. It's critical to report readings below 70 mg/dL (hypoglycemia) or above 180 mg/dL (hyperglycemia), or per your facility's protocols.
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