Alternate Site Testing; What Is Ast (Alternate Site Testing); Alternate Sites For Testing; Alternate Site Blood Sampling (Forearm, Palm, Thigh, Calf) - ReliOn PREMIER CLASSIC User Manual

Alternate Site Testing

What is AST (Alternate Site Testing)?

When someone tests their glucose, they usually take the blood
sample from the tip of the finger. However, since there are many
nerve endings in the fingertip, it can be quite painful. When
doing a glucose test, using different parts of the body, such as
the forearms, palms, thighs, and calves, can reduce the pain
during testing. This method of testing with different parts of the
body is called Alternate Site Testing. While AST may reduce the
pain during testing, it may not be simple for everyone and the
following precautions should be observed during testing.

Alternate Sites for Testing

Alternate Site Blood Sampling (forearm, palm, thigh, calf)

Select a clean, soft and fleshy sample site area free of visible
veins and hair and away from bones. Gently massage the sample
site to help blood circulation to minimize result differences
between fingertip and alternate site sampling.
Firmly press and hold the lancing device against site. Wait until
the skin surface under the lancing device changes color.
Then press the release button while continuing to apply
pressure. Keep holding the lancing device against your skin until
sufficient (at least 0.5 μL) blood is drawn. Carefully lift the lancing
device away from your skin.
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