STEPS IN CHECKING SUGAR LEVELS (FBS – FASTING BLOOD SUGAR)

By Dr Peter Onoja

Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) is the level of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast (usually 8–12 hours). It is important in diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and other metabolic conditions.


Here are the steps:



1. PREPARATION BEFORE TEST


Patient must fast for 8–12 hours (no food or drink except water).


Explain the procedure to the patient to ensure cooperation.


Assemble materials:


Glucometer


Test strips


Lancet device


Alcohol swab or cotton wool with spirit


Gloves


Sharps container



2. HAND HYGIENE


Wash your hands with soap and water.


Wear disposable gloves.



3. PREPARE THE PATIENT


Ensure the patient is seated and relaxed.


Confirm the fasting period was properly observed.


4. SITE PREPARATION


Select a finger (usually the ring or middle finger).


Clean with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.


5. BLOOD SAMPLE COLLECTION


Insert a test strip into the glucometer (it will usually turn on automatically).


Use a sterile lancet to prick the cleaned finger.


Wipe off the first drop of blood (optional depending on local practice).


Gently squeeze the finger to get a second drop.


Touch the drop to the tip of the test strip (do not smear).



6. READING AND INTERPRETATION


Wait for the glucometer to display the blood sugar level (in mg/dL or mmol/L).


Normal FBS:


70–99 mg/dL (3.9–5.5 mmol/L) – Normal


100–125 mg/dL (5.6–6.9 mmol/L) – Prediabetes


126 mg/dL or above (7.0 mmol/L or above) – Diabetes (needs confirmation)



7. POST-PROCEDURE CARE


Apply pressure or cotton to stop bleeding.


Dispose of lancet and used strip in sharps container.


Remove gloves and wash your hands.


Document the result and inform the patient appropriately.



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