HOSPITAL
GUIDELINES OF PRACTICE
NUMBER:
HP 300-121
Page 1 of 5
EFFECTIVE DATE:
June 12, 1991
TITLE:
ACCU-CHECK INFORM II BLOOD GLUCOSE MONITORING SYSTEM
PRINCIPLE
The ACCU-CHEK Inform II system quantitatively measures glucose in whole blood. The enzyme on the
test strip, mutant variant of quinoprotein glucose dehydrogenase from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus,
recombinant in E. coli, converts the glucose in the blood sample to gluconolactone. This reaction creates
a harmless electrical DC current that the meter interprets for a glucose result. The sample and
environmental conditions are also evaluated using a small AC signal.
The system is calibrated with venous blood containing various glucose concentrations and is calibrated to
deliver plasma-like results. The reference values are obtained using a validated test method. This test
method is referenced to the hexokinase method and is traceable to an NIST standard.
SPECIMEN
Proper blood sample collection is an essential and integral part of bedside blood glucose testing.
Acceptable Samples
1. The following fresh whole blood sample types may be used (all line draws must be used within 30
minutes of collection):
a. Venous whole blood
b. Arterial whole blood
c. Capillary (non-neonate finger stick and neonate heel stick) whole blood (test immediately)
2. The following anticoagulants are acceptable (do not use any other anticoagulants for meter testing):
a. Lithium or Sodium Heparin; EDTA
3. Refer to
Mosby’s Nursing Skills
for detailed instructions on how to perform a finger or heel stick.
MATERIALS
Accu-Chek Inform II meter
Accu-Check Inform II glucose strips
Accu-Chek Inform II Quality Control solutions
Accu-Chek Inform II Linearity Kit
Accu-Check Inform II base unit
Lancet devices
Gloves
Sharps container
Alcohol wipe
REAGENT STORAGE, HANDLING, AND STABILITY
Meters, system components and reagents are stored, maintained and handled according to
manufacturer’s instructions and in compliance with all established safety and infection control policies
and regulatory guidelines.
Test Strip Storage and Handling
Use the test strips at temperatures between 61-95°F (16-35°C) and between 10-80% relative humidity.
Store the test strips at temperatures between 36-86°F (2-30°C). Do not freeze.
Store unused test strips in the original container with the cap closed. Do not remove test strips from the
test strip container and put them into another container such as a plastic bag or pocket, etc., (to protect
from humidity).
Use the test strip immediately after removing it from the container.
Discard the test strips that are past the expiration date printed on the test strip container. If the expiration
date is missing or illegible, do not use the test strips.
Do not apply blood or control solution to the test strip before inserting it into the meter. If a result appears
before applying
blood or control solution, do not act on that result.
APPROVED BY/TITLE:
DATE REVIEWED:
DATE REVISED:
06/26/13
