Alternate Site Testing - i-SENS CareSens N POP Owner's Booklet

Alternate Site Testing

Before using AST, please consult your healthcare professional.
What is AST (Alternate Site Testing)?
Usually, when someone tests their glucose, they 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 and palms 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)
Select a clean, soft and fleshy sample site area free of visible
veins and hair and away from bones. Wash the area with soap
and water and dry thoroughly. Gently massage the sample site
with clean hands to help blood circulation to minimise 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, actual size: ) blood is drawn.
Carefully lift the lancing device away from your skin.
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