Understanding Glucose Test Strips

The test strip is the small, disposable part of blood glucose testing, and the most important. It is where the chemical reaction happens. Strips are sensitive to moisture, heat and age, so handling them correctly is essential for results you can trust.

How a test strip works

A strip contains an enzyme that reacts with glucose in the blood sample. The reaction produces a tiny electrical current, which the meter measures and converts into a glucose reading. The whole process takes a few seconds and requires only a small drop of blood.

Why strips are meter-specific

Each manufacturer designs its strips and meters as a matched system. A strip from one brand will not fit, or will not read correctly, in another brand’s meter. Always check compatibility before buying. Our Blood Glucose Test Strips are made for the Royal Care meter in our Blood Glucose Monitoring Kit and do not work with other meters.

What affects strip accuracy

The FDA lists several factors that can make results unreliable:

• Damaged or expired strips
• Exposure to heat or humidity
• Not enough blood on the strip
• Substances on the skin, such as food residue or lotion
• Extreme temperatures or high altitude
• Certain medical factors, such as a very high or very low red blood cell count, and dehydration

Storing strips correctly

• Keep strips in their original vial or foil packaging.
• Close the vial cap tightly straight after taking a strip out.
• Store at room temperature, within the range printed on the packaging.
• Keep them away from bathrooms, kitchens, windowsills and cars.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze unless the instructions say so.
• Do not transfer strips to another container.

Expiry and opening dates

Strips carry an expiration date. Many vials must also be used within a set period after first opening, often a few months. Write the opening date on the vial. Do not use strips beyond either date.

Using a strip properly

1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
2. Take out one strip and close the vial.
3. Insert the strip into the meter as shown in the instructions.
4. Apply the blood drop to the sample area when the meter prompts you.
5. Let the strip draw in the blood; do not smear it or add more blood later unless the instructions allow.
6. Read the result, then remove and discard the strip.

Each strip is for single use.

Control solution

Control solution is a liquid with a known amount of glucose. Testing it on a strip checks that the meter and strips are working together properly. Use it when:

• you open a new vial of strips;
• results seem inconsistent with how you feel;
• the meter has been dropped or damaged;
• the instructions recommend it.

Buying strips safely

The FDA warns against buying or using previously owned test strips, which may be sold online at low prices. They may have been stored improperly, may be expired, or may have been tampered with, and could give incorrect results. Look for:

• sealed, undamaged packaging;
• a clear expiration date;
• a seller you can identify and contact.

Error messages

If the meter shows an error, the usual causes are too little blood, a damaged strip or a strip inserted incorrectly. Repeat the test with a new strip. Persistent errors should be checked against the manual.

Disposal

Used strips carry a small amount of blood. Place them in household trash in a sealed bag or container, according to local guidance, and wash your hands afterward.

The bottom line

Strips are precise but fragile. Keep them sealed, dry, in date and matched to your meter, and your readings will be far more dependable. Find strips and meters in our diabetes care range.

Sources

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Blood Glucose Monitoring Devices.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Monitoring Your Blood Sugar.
3. American Diabetes Association. Check Your Blood Glucose.