Use first or second drop for home blood sugar tests

CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: When checking blood sugar at home with a glucometer, there is often confusion over whether to use the first or second drop of blood from the finger. According to Dr Rajesh Khadgawat, an endocrinology specialist at AIIMS New Delhi, while testing at home, the first drop should be wiped with cotton and the test should be done with the second drop. One reason is that the skin of the finger may have traces of food, sweet substances, dust or other material. If the first drop is used without cleaning the hands, the sugar reading may be affected. Research has also found that the first-drop reading can be inaccurate, especially if hands are not washed after contact with sugary substances.

However, there are some differences in scientific guidelines. According to one study, the first drop can also be used after washing hands with soap and water and drying them properly. At the same time, the Delhi government’s SOP on glucometers describes the process of wiping away the first drop and using the second drop. Before testing, wash hands with soap and water and dry them completely. Avoid pressing the finger too hard to draw blood, and follow the instructions provided by the company that made your glucometer.

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