37
COMPARING METER AND LABORATORY
RESULTS
The meter provides you with plasma equivalent results.
The result you obtain from your meter may differ somewhat
from your laboratory result due to normal variation. Meter
results can be affected by factors and conditions that do
not affect laboratory results in the same way (See test strip
package insert for typical accuracy and precision data, and
for important information on Limitations). To make an
accurate comparison between meter and laboratory
results, follow the guide-lines below.
Before you go to the lab:
Perform a control solution test to make sure that the
meter is working properly.
It is best to fast for at least eight hours before doing
comparison tests.
Take your meter with you to the lab.
While at the lab:
Make sure that the samples for both tests (the meter test
and the lab test are taken and tested within 15 minutes of
each other).
Wash your hands before obtaining a blood sample.
Never use your meter with blood that has been
collected in a gray-top test tube.
Use fresh capillary blood only.
