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Things to Know When Using AST
Please read the following before testing at alternate sites
(forearms and palms).
The capillary whole blood of the fingertips reflects changes in
glucose levels more rapidly than in alternate sites. The test results
from the fingertip testing and AST may differ due to factors such
as lifestyle and ingested food which affect glucose levels.
Acceptable Situations for AST
When your blood glucose levels are stable
• Fasting period
• Before a meal
• Before going to bed
Situations Requiring Fingertip Test
When your blood glucose levels are unstable
• During two (2) hours after a meal or exercise
• When sick or when glucose levels seem quite lower
than test value
• When hypoglycemia is not well recognised
• When insulin has the biggest effect
• During two (2) hours after an insulin injection
Alternate Site Testing
What is AST (Alternate Site Testing)?
Usually, we take the blood sample from the tip of the finger.
However, since there are many nerve endings in the fingertip, it
can be quite painful. When doing a glucose test, using different
parts of the body such as the forearms and palms can reduce
the pain during testing. This method of testing with different
parts of the body is called Alternate Site Testing. While AST
may reduce the pain during testing, it may not be simple for
everyone and the following precautions should be observed
during testing.
Alternate Sites for Testing
Alternate Site Blood Sampling (forearm and palm)
Select a clean, soft and fleshy sample site area free of visible
veins and hair and away from bones. Gently massage the
sample site to help blood circulation to minimise result
differences between fingertip and alternate site sampling.
Firmly press and hold the lancing device against site. Wait
until the skin surface under the lancing device changes color.
Then press the release button while continuing to apply
pressure. Keep holding the lancing device against your skin
until sufficient (at least 0.4 μL, actual size: ) blood is drawn.
Carefully lift the lancing device away from your skin.
Before using AST, please consult your healthcare professional.
