A small drop of blood is required to perform the test and this can be easily obtained from the patient's fingertip. A large number of glucometer devices are easily available and the patient must consult the doctor and /or diabetes educator and decide which is a good device for the patient. You will be learning the procedure to use the glucometer in Practical 5 of Practical Block.

The glucometer provides accurate assessment of blood sugar levels and the sense of self confidence in the patient increases by monitoring and management of blood sugar by him/herself. The glucometer needs constant correction and the patient must be taught how to use it properly. The regularity and intervals at which patients need to do SMBG are individualized depending on the patient's clinical profile and blood
sugar level.

A regular recording of blood sugar level reading by the patient provides valuable information and is used to adjust the doses of oral tablets and insulin by the doctor.