What is the best way to obtain a blood sample for a blood glucose test?

When taking a blood sample, most people with diabetes use the sides of their fingertips. These areas are well supplied with blood, making it easy to obtain a drop of blood from them. The centre of the fingertips should be avoided, as this area is highly sensitive to pain due to a high density of sensory receptors.

To ensure that pricking your fingers up to 10 times a day does not put too much strain on them, you should bear the following points in mind:

• Hands should be thoroughly washed with warm water and soap and then dried. Beside the cleaning effect blood circulation is improved.
• Disinfection is not needed – alcohol residues could lead to wrong result.
• The lateral sides of the fingertips should be punctured to avoid pain – in the middle part of the fingertips are more sensitive receptors. Avoid to puncture the nail bed which could lead to inflammations.
• Replace the lancet every time after using it once – the needle will lose its sharp cut tip or could be bent. Using the lancet multiple times will lead to more pain and will damage the skin. The danger of infections and inflammations through bacteria or viruses is increased.
• Use thin lancets (some are now available with a diameter of just 0.2 mm); these reduce the pain of the prick whilst still ensuring a sufficient blood sample. The size of the blood drop does not depend on the thickness of the lancet, but on the depth of the prick. Modern blood glucose meters now require only very small amounts of blood.
• Change fingers – the index, middle and ring fingers are suitable. Some people have no problem using their little finger or thumb either.
• If possible use fingers of both hands to get a blood sample.
• Try to find your optimal depth for puncture: maybe you do not have to prick very deep to get an appropriate blood sample. You can also press gently the arm or finger towards the end, shake the arm or let it hang down to improve process of blood sampling. Avoid pressing the finger to produce a blood drop.
• Press the lancing device firmly against the side of your fingertip before pressing the release button.