“Diabetic finger stick?”
I was told years ago to use the heel of a hand for a blood stick to measure blood sugars. Why are so many hospital technicians reluctant to use that method?
Male | 70 years old
3 Answers
Endocrinology,DiabetesEndocrinology-Diabetes
The majority of glucometers are designed to use the finger not the heel of the hand. The type of lancing devices used in the hospital are only approved for the fingers and using the heel of the hand often does not supply an adequate drop of blood as these meters need more blood than those designed for home use.
The heel of the hand is certainly a place to obtain a glucose level but it is awkward. Most people prefer the side of a finger. We recommend a continuous glucose monitor to avoid this poking business.
They may not know it is an acceptable site or the hospital policy makes them use finger sticks only. I use the heel of the hand in my practice.
