For Better Glucose Monitoring, Attack the Finger on the Flank
Most patients who self-monitor their blood glucose levels stick the lancet into the finger pad to obtain a drop of blood for the glucometer. A more effective strategy is to stick the side of the finger instead. The sides are the most vascular areas on the finger, making it easier to obtain blood.
Most patients who self-monitor their blood glucose levels stick the lancet into the finger pad to obtain a drop of blood for the glucometer. A more effective strategy is to stick the side of the finger instead. The sides are the most vascular areas on the finger, making it easier to obtain blood.
-- Mohammed M. Basha, MD
Gainesville, Fla
Reader Feedback
The sides of fingers are also less painful because there are less nerve endings than on the finger pads.
--Sylvie Rosenbloom, MSN, BC-FNP
Scarsdale, NY
Newsletter
Enhance your clinical practice with the Patient Care newsletter, offering the latest evidence-based guidelines, diagnostic insights, and treatment strategies for primary care physicians.
