(HealthDayNews) -- When diabetics check their blood glucose levels with home monitors, the readings can be up to 15 percent off. Such errors may seem small, but if they lead to an insulin injection at the wrong hour, they can be dangerous.
Here's how to guarantee accurate readings, according to the American Diabetes Association:
- Always follow the manufacturer's directions.
- Test the meter at least once a month, following the procedure in the instructions.
- Recalibrate the meter whenever you open a new packet of test strips.
- Don't use test strips past their expiration date.
- Every now and then, check the meter against a lab test.
