The generic term ‘blood sugar’ applies more specifically to glucose in plasma. The strip in the instant meter meant for self-monitoring takes whole blood from the capillary blood in the fingertip. The meter converts the result to the plasma glucose content.
The blood sugar check is based on biosensor technology, i.e. the enzyme reaction occurring in the strip. The most commonly used enzyme is glucose oxidase, which reacts with the glucose in the blood sample. The resulting reaction produces measurable electric tension. The change is relative to the sample’s glucose content or blood sugar level. The unit of measurement of blood sugar used in Finland is millimoles per litre (mmol/l).
The blood glucose strips come either in individual packages, tubs or ready in the strip cylinder. Some blood glucose meters also include designated strips to measure the blood ketone level.
The test results are recorded in the self-monitoring diary or they are automatically or manually transferred from the device onto a computer or to an application on a mobile device.
In the blood glucose meter or application, you can also log other treatment-related factors, such as your meals and the carbohydrates contained in them as well as exercise. The time settings of the meter must be correctly set in order to see the correct measurement times.