Accu Chek Instant (new) Blood Glucose Meter And Lancing Device (free 10 Test Strips)

What is the Accu-Chek Instant system used for?

The Accu-Chek Instant blood glucose monitoring system is used for the quantitative measurement of glucose in fresh capillary whole blood obtained from the finger, palm, forearm, or upper arm. It aids individuals with diabetes in monitoring the effectiveness of their glucose control. It is intended for self-testing by people with diabetes and can also be used by healthcare professionals in clinical settings. This system is not for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus.

How does the Accu-Chek Instant meter and lancing device work?

The Accu-Chek Instant meter measures blood glucose levels by analyzing a small blood sample applied to an Accu-Chek Instant test strip. After inserting a test strip into the meter, a flashing blood drop symbol indicates it's ready for a sample. Once a blood drop touches the yellow edge of the test strip, the result appears on the display in less than four seconds. The meter features a target range indicator that visually shows if your result is above, within, or below your target range, with an arrow indicating the position.

The accompanying lancing device (typically Accu-Chek FastClix or SoftClix) uses pre-loaded lancets in a drum, which eliminates the need to handle individual lancets. It primes and pricks the skin in a single "1-Click" action, and the depth of penetration can be adjusted with multiple settings to suit individual skin types for virtually pain-free testing.

How do I perform a blood glucose test with the Accu-Chek Instant system?

1. Prepare: Wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water and dry them well.
2. Insert Test Strip: Remove a test strip from its container and immediately close the cap tightly. Insert the metallic end of the test strip into the meter; it will turn on automatically. A flashing blood drop symbol will appear on the display.
3. Prepare Lancing Device: If using the Accu-Chek FastClix, load a lancet drum if needed. Adjust the lancing depth to a comfortable level (start at 2 or 3, adjust as necessary for tougher skin).
4. Obtain Blood Sample: Place the lancing device firmly against your fingertip (it's recommended to alternate fingers) and press the release button to prick your finger. Gently squeeze your finger to help a blood drop form.
5. Apply Blood Sample: Touch the yellow edge of the test strip to the blood drop. Do not put blood on top of the test strip. Remove your finger from the strip as soon as the flashing hourglass symbol appears.
6. Read Result: Your blood glucose result will appear on the display in less than 4 seconds.
7. Dispose: Eject the used test strip using the strip ejector button on the meter. For the lancing device, remove the cap and slide the ejector forward to dispose of the used lancet in a sharps container.

What are the important precautions and safety warnings?

• Single-Person Use: The Accu-Chek Instant meter and lancing device are intended for use by one person only. They must not be used to test blood glucose from more than one person to prevent cross-infection.
• Sterile Lancets: Always use a new, sterile lancet for each blood sample to reduce the risk of infection and ensure virtually pain-free testing. Reused lancets lose sharpness and can be more painful.
• Test Strip Handling: Use only Accu-Chek Instant test strips and check the "use by" date on the container. Close the test strip container tightly immediately after removing a strip to protect the remaining strips from humidity.
• Choking Hazard: The system contains small parts (e.g., batteries, lancets) that can be a choking hazard. Keep them away from young children. If you suspect a battery has been swallowed, seek immediate medical attention.
• Avoid Contamination: Ensure your hands are clean and dry before testing, as contamination with dirt or liquids can affect glucose readings.

Are there any risks or things to be aware of?

While generally safe, improper use can lead to risks. Using a lancing device on more than one person carries an increased risk of cross-contamination and infection. If the lancing device is dropped with a lancet inserted, the lancet may become loose or protrude, so care should be taken not to touch the front of the cap. Incorrect test strip usage, such as using expired strips or not applying enough blood, can lead to inaccurate results. Certain conditions, like a high level of ascorbate in the blood, can also affect results.

How should Accu-Chek Instant test strips and the lancing device be stored?

• Test Strips: Store unused Accu-Chek Instant test strips in their original container with the cap tightly closed.
• Lancing Device: Store the lancing device at room temperature and avoid extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car, as this can impair its operation. Do not store the lancing device in a primed state or with a lancet inserted, and keep all small parts away from children.
• Meter: The meter itself can be stored in temperatures ranging from -25 to 70°C. It is advisable to keep the meter, test strips, and lancing device in a protective carry case to prevent damage and keep everything organized.

Can the Accu-Chek Instant meter connect to other devices?

Yes, the Accu-Chek Instant meter is Bluetooth-enabled and can wirelessly transfer your blood glucose results to a compatible smartphone using the mySugr app. This allows for automatic logging of blood sugar levels and other important diabetes data, helping you manage your diabetes effectively. The meter can also transfer data to a PC via a Micro USB port.

What if my meter shows an error code?

If your Accu-Chek Instant meter displays an error code, it indicates a problem such as a damaged or improperly inserted test strip, insufficient blood sample, or an electronic error. You should consult the user manual for specific error code interpretations and troubleshooting steps. Generally, it's recommended to discard the test strip and repeat the test with a new one. If an error persists, perform a control test with control solution or contact your healthcare professional.