Alternate Names: Glucose monitoring; Random glucose; Glucose - random; Serum glucose - random

How Performed: The finger is pricked and then a drop of blood is put on a reagent (a chemical substance known to react in a specific way) pad. The pad changes color depending on the amount of glucose in the blood. In one method, the pad is compared to a color change chart (the period of time the blood is on the pad is very important). In the other method, a portable glucose meter is used to read the strip and displays the results as a number on a digital display.

How To Prepare: Have all test items within reach before starting because timing is important. Clean the fingertip with soap and water or an alcohol swab. The fingertip needs to be completely dry before pricking.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child’s age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child’s age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How It Feels: There is a sharp prick.

Risks: There is a slight chance of local infection at the puncture site. A small amount of bleeding may occur after the puncture.

Why Performed: The test allows the diabetic to carefully monitor blood glucose levels to assure that they are within the normal range. The individual can then respond quickly to high or low blood sugar levels (diabetes or hypoglycemia) with appropriate intervention.

This test can also be a screening test for blood glucose levels.

Normal Values: Range from 60 to 140 milligrams per deciliter but can vary depending on physical activity, meals, and insulin administration.

Abnormal Results: If levels are too low, the person is in a state of hypoglycemia. Some glucose (food) should be consumed, and the individual may need to alter the next insulin dose and possibly future insulin doses as well.

If levels are too high, the person is hyperglycemic, and may need additional insulin.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM)
• noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM)

Cost:

Special Considerations: The person needs to be able to differentiate between shades of certain colors if using the color chart. If the person uses the monitor, the correct procedure must be followed or the results will not be accurate.

Abnormal results, particularly in a person not known to be diabetic, may indicate a need to obtain a fasting blood glucose or a glucose tolerance test. Consult the health care provider.