Fingerstick Training

Hi Linda,

     I do direct observation every year for competency. If they do not perform the fingerstick properly they won't get a correct answer. Every year I find a handful that forget to wipe away the first drop of blood....so they do forget. I have 10 True and False questions that deal with anything new that has come up during the year and troubleshooting.  They can stick themselves or pair up and stick each other. Some that are squeamish just stick me. Most of them have a competition to see whose glucose is the lowest or highest. Here is our procedure from my protocol:

  9.  Follow these steps to obtain an acceptable finger-tip sample:

• Explain the purpose and steps of the testing procedure to reassure the patient.


• Perform hand hygiene and put on disposable gloves prior to testing.


• Observe universal precautions when handling blood samples.


• Cleanse the puncture site with an alcohol wipe, and allow the area to air dry thoroughly or dry with a cotton ball or 2x2 gauze.

Note: Alcohol can hemolyze the specimen and falsely elevate result.

• Pressure should be applied to the middle of the finger for approximately 3 seconds. (Rotate the puncture site using a different finger each time).


• Use the lancet device properly and prick towards the side of the finger.


• Apply pressure to the finger and wipe off the first drop of blood.

Apply pressure again to develop a drop of blood. (Sample needed is 0.6 ul)

Hope this helps,

Lois

lois.snider@stclair.org

412-942-3827