Optional, EMT
Course Objectives Indications for Use Proper Technique Pitfalls and Troubleshooting
Indications Altered Mental Status Patients with a history of diabetes Diabetic patients with medical or trauma emergencies
Equipment Protective gloves & eyewear Tissue or gauze pads Alcohol wipes Fingerstick lancets Chemical reagent strips (must match monitor) Electronic blood glucose meter
Technique BSI Clean fingertip with alcohol wipe (allow to dry) Follow manufacturer’s instructions Use triggered fingertip lancet to side of finger Record reading and time of test Remove strip & dispose of strip & lancet properly
DO’s and DON’Ts Match code on device to strip Get an adequate sample size Recap reagent strips Dispose of lancet in sharps container Follow manufacturer’s specific instructions Reuse lancets or reagent strips Touch target area of strip Use lancet before alcohol is dry Forget to calibrate device if needed Use outdated strips
Pitfalls & Troubleshooting Follow manufacturer’s instructions for routine maintenance, calibration, and battery replacement Use correct control solution and test strips for the model of the device Let alcohol dry before using lancet Completely cover target area of strip with a single drop of blood See user’s manual for troubleshooting tips
Treatment Blood Glucose levels below 70 Follow Hypoglycemia protocol for your level Glucagon per local Med Control
Skill Overview BSI Select and prep site Collect and place specimen Glucometer reading Charting Treatment
Summary Indicated for altered mental status or known diabetic patients with illness or injury BSI Prep site with alcohol wipe Use lancet to obtain sample Transfer blood to reagent strip Insert in monitor Record results and use for differential diagnosis