Extremes in hematocrit (the amount of
red blood cells in the blood) can affect
test results. Very high hematocrits
(above
55
%) and very low hematocrits
(below
30
%) can cause false results.
1
Abnormally high levels of Vitamin C or
other reducing substances will cause
false low blood glucose results.
2
Normal levels of reducing substances
have little effect on blood glucose
results.
Do not
use blood samples with
preservatives that contain fluoride
(gray-top test tubes). You will get false
low results.
When testing, removal of the test strip
prior to display of the blood glucose
result may give you a false result.
Infection Control
Use universal blood precautions. All
patient samples and materials with
which they come in contact are
considered biohazards and should be
handled as if capable of transmitting
infection. Follow proper precautions in
accordance with federal, state, and local
regulations when disposing of all
materials.
3
DCO_06331801A_OTB_OB_US 11/25/03 3:27 PM Page 3
