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diabetes: care of blood sugar test supplies

overview

it's important to take care of your supplies so that you can test your blood sugar safely and get the most accurate results.

  • take care of your meter.
    • follow the care instructions from the manufacturer. some meters need to be cleaned regularly and have their batteries changed now and then.
    • meters can be damaged if they're dropped or jarred or are exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures.
  • dispose of lancets properly.

    lancets must be thrown away safely after they're used.

    • put used lancets in a plastic container (such as a small, empty soda pop bottle or laundry detergent bottle). seal it when it's three-quarters full.
    • don't put lancets into your household wastebasket or trash can. a used lancet might stick someone.
    • check with your local trash disposal agency about how to dispose of lancets. some agencies have special ways to get rid of this waste.
  • protect your test strips from dampness and humidity.
    • don't store your test strips in the bathroom.
    • replace the lid on the strip bottle right away after you take out a strip.

credits

current as of: october 2, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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