Product Manual

Page 31
9. Collecting a Fingerstick Sample
Tips for a Successful Fingerstick
• Make sure that you have all the supplies needed before
you start.
▪ 21g Lancet device (Single use, auto disabling)
▪ Sample Transfer Tubes
• For fingerstick blood testing, increasing the flow of blood in the finger
will help you capture a good drop of blood. Before you prick the finger,
warm your hand by washing it in warm water, holding it under their
armpit, or by using a hand warmer. Ensure that the patient’s hand
is dry prior to testing.
• Do not use fingers with tight rings, scars, calluses, or other features
that prevent getting good access to the blood.
• One of the middle or index fingers on either hand
is recommended.
• Gently squeeze or massage the finger to be lanced, near the tip.
Good circulation can be seen if the patient’s fingertip changes to a
pinkish shade.
• Use a 21g 1.8 mm depth single-use auto-disabling lancet. Smaller
gauge/shallow depth lancets (i.e. diabetes 23g lancets) should
not be used. Refer to the Lancet device instructions for more
information on use.
• Lance the fleshy part of the fingertip just slightly left or right of the
center. Press lancet firmly against finger.
• For better blood flow, you may have the patient hold their hand below
their heart. If necessary, squeeze the finger from the sides to
open up the wound for proper blood flow to produce pea sized
drop.