Fingerstick Glucose Testing-Do Alcohol Wipes Interfere w/ Results?

Nurses General Nursing

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What is your employer's policy and procedure on fingerstick blood glucose testing?

My employer doesn't have a policy and procedure on this and my co-workers and I are all in debate as to whether it is okay to clean the finger w/ alcohol wipes, as long as you let the finger dry, versus having the patient wash their hands. Is there documented evidence that alcohol interferes w/ results?

I've searched the ADA and CDC for their recommendations but haven't found anything yet. If anyone can point me to some documented guidelines I'd appreciate it!

Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

I prefer the pt wash first.

If not convenient, I'll use a wipe, let it dry, stick, then wipe off the first drop with a 2x2.

Test with drop #2

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I want to thank the OP for starting this thread. As a CNA I am responsible for getting BS in the am and when a nurse requests. I always wipe with an alchohol wipe first but I must admit that I don't always wait for the alcohol to completely dry. Well, this weekend when I did BS I waited and I did not fan or blow on the finger. I love it when I learn stuff!

BTW, staff development told me that we do not have to use alcohol wipes at all. Anyone else heard this? I still use them though.

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Specializes in Leadership, Psych, HomeCare, Amb. Care.

BTW, staff development told me that we do not have to use alcohol wipes at all. Anyone else heard this? I still use them though.

The wipes are convenient for the staff.

At home, there is no need for them to ever use alcohol wipes

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