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Blood-Glucose Monitors Buying Guide

A A1c test, important for measuring your true blood glucose level and not just the one that fluctuates throughout the day. * '''Taking Samples''' ** Look at the size of the strips that the meter uses and make sure that they are large enough to easily handle. ** If you need to test frequently, look for the models that draw the smallest amount of blood, or in other words, those with the smallest lancets. For example, One Touch Ultra (1 microliter). There are also models with adjustable lancets that allow you to control how much pressure is applied when pricking to alter the amount of blood drawn. ** Look for monitors that can draw blood from other locations on the body besides the finger if you have to test frequently. This is usually called "alternative site testing." * '''Battery Type''' ** Meters that take standard AA batteries make it easy to replace them whenever and wherever. However, replacing batteries can be a hassle and can be a problem if they suddenly die on you. Certain models have permanent, builtmonitor'>Precision QID Pen. ** Either way, consider how often you'll need to replace the batteries. These costs do add up over time. * '''Recording Capability''' ** If you are familiar with computers and technology and you would like to record your results for future use, a model that has a jack to download the results ot a personal computer can be very useful. ** Without a way to download your results on a daily basis, make sure that the monitor has a good memory function. Some record as few as 9 results while others can remember more than 300. * '''Cleaning''' ** The monitor should be easy to clean if it requires it, because when it is not sanitary, it will give less accurate results. There are models that don't require any wiping or cleaning, such as the MediSense Pen. * '''Calibration ''' ** It is important to remember that calibration may be necessary on certain models, and if not properly calibrated, they can cause inaccurate results, which is another reason to have more than one meter. ** If a model does require periodic calibration, do make sure that it's easy to do. ** Some models are selfmonitors'>Precision Xtra by Abbott Laboratories. * '''Cost''' ** The monitor itself usually doesn't cost that much, perhaps $30 to $100, and most of the time, if you have insurance, you will pay next to nothing. Talking monitors will cost significantly more, perhaps as much as $500. ** Note that more important than the price of the blood glucose monitor itself, is that of the test strips. If cost is a concern, go for monitors that can use inexpensive test strips such as Ascensia/Bayer brand.

Comparing Manufacturer Models

Please note that BD Logic, a company that teaches about diabetes education, no longer manufactures glucose monitoring systems and that the glucose test strips will be phased out by the end of 2007.

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