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What is meant by the term "quality control"? 

• Quality control is a method used to ensure the accuracy and quality of a device. 

Why should you QC your glucometer? 

• To ensure reliable and accurate results 

When should you QC your glucometer[1]?

• When you use your meter for the first time

• If you drop your meter 

• When you open a new vial of test strips

• If you are concerned your meter is not performing correctly 

• When you get abnormal results 

Steps to QC your glucometer[1]:

               Step 1: Wash your hands. 

               Step 2: Allow control solutions and test strips to adjust to room temperature. 

               Step 3: Mix the control solution by swirling it in a circular pattern. Do not shake the vial! 

               Step 4: Date the control solutions to throw away after 3 months. Never use a control                                          solution that has been opened for more than 3 months. 

               Step 5: Date your strip bottle for 180 days. Never use strips that have been opened more                                    than 180 days.  

               Step 6: Turn your meter on and insert the test strip. 

Step 7: If prompted, scan the lot barcode on the test strip. 

               Step 8: Select the level 1 or low control test on your glucometer. If prompted scan the                                          barcode on the level 1 solution.  

               Step 9: Using the level 1 or low control, apply the solution to the end of the test strip. Your                                meter should display the result shortly after.   

Step 10: Compare your result to the appropriate range on the vial.   

Step 11: Remove the strip and discard. Continue to the next step ONLY if your result passed                or was within the appropriate range.  

               Step 12: Repeat steps 6-11 with level 3 or high control test solution. 

               Step 13: If your meter passed both controls, your meter is ready to be used and can be                                          turned off.        

What to do if your meter does not pass the QC[2]:

               Step 1: Try the test again with a different test strip. 

               Step 2: Try the test again with a new control solution bottle. 

               Step 3: Restart your glucometer and try again. 

               Step 4: If your meter is still not working, DO NOT use for blood glucose testing. Call the                                      manufacturer of your glucometer and test strips for assistance. 

What factors can affect your results[2]?

• Faulty test strips 

• High or low temperatures 

• Alcohol or dirt on your skin 

• Not enough solution or blood applied to the strip 

• Monitor problems such as low batteries or improper coding 

• Anemia or dehydration

• Testing site location 

 

References:  

[1] Quality control for glucometer (2012). https://static1.squarespace.com/static/54aadfafe4b09569a147053f/t/571f9011859fd0a3d33a737c/ 1461686289668/QUALITY+CONTROL+FOR+GLUCOMETER.pdf 

[2] Regina Castro, M. (2020). Blood glucose monitors: What factors affect accuracy? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/expert-answers/blood-glucose-monitors/faq-20057902