NREMT Skillset/Glucometer Blood Testing

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Glucometer Blood Testing is included in this California-based EMT program as it is required for skills verification for California Registration. It is not required for National NREMT registration.

• After washing your hands, insert a test strip into your meter.
• Clean patient finger with antiseptic wipe and let dry.
• Use the lancing device on the side of the patient's fingertip to get a drop of blood.
• Touch and hold the edge of the test strip to the drop of blood and wait for the result.
• The blood glucose level will appear on the meter's display.

Note: All meters are slightly different, so always refer to your user's manual for specific instructions. Follow this procedure for calibrating meters which need calibration.

Other tips for checking:

• With some meters, you can also use your forearm, thigh, or fleshy part of the hand.
• If you use your fingertip, stick the side of the fingertip by the fingernail to avoid having sore spots on the frequently used part of the finger.

The American Diabetes Association suggests the following targets for most nonpregnant adults with diabetes. A1C targets differ based on age and health. Also, more or less stringent glycemic goals may be appropriate for each individual.

• A1C: Less than 7% A1C may also be reported as eAG: Less than 154 mg/dL
• Before a meal (preprandial plasma glucose): 80–130 mg/dL
• 1-2 hours after beginning of the meal (postprandial plasma glucose): Less than 180 mg/dL