-
A
small instrument for pricking the skin with a
fine needle to obtain a sample of blood to test
for glucose (sugar).
-
How
do I sample blood?
Diabetics
generally use specially designed lancets and automatic
lancing devices for the blood sampling stage of blood
glucose monitoring. These devices are sometimes included
as part of a blood glucose monitoring kit, and aim
to make this stage as painless as possible.
Are
the lancets large needles?
Lancets
are specifically designed to provide different degrees
of skin penetration. Adjustable covers allow people
to choose how deep they need to go to draw blood.
For instance, a young child will only need very shallow
penetration whereas an adult with poor circulation
will need to go deeper.
What
are automatic lancing devices?
Automatic
lancing devices are designed for children, people
who have problems with co-ordination or those who
do not like the manual lancing process. Automatic
lancing devices are not particularly expensive and
can save time.
What
should I be aware of when using lancets?
Lancets
are sharp and proper care and attention is necessary.
Diabetics should never share automatic lancing devices
or lancets. You should discuss lancet hygiene, lancet
reuse and sterilisation with your doctor, and take
expert advice when choosing which type of lancet.
