A lancet is a device that allows blood sampling for analysis with minimal pain and skin damage at the piercing site. This is possible thanks to a special design. The lancet is used to draw blood from the finger, sometimes from the earlobe. They are used in cases when taking a blood test in a medical institution, also for glucometers. The device looks like an sterile needle, refilled in a plastic case in the form of a handle, and is a replaceable element of the ( Accu-Chek, Satellite Express, Contour TC, etc.).They are convenient for people who need regular measurement of blood biochemical parameters, as well as for taking blood without pain in infants and young children.
Advantages of using
Most of the glucometers( Satellite Express, Contour TC, Accu-Chek, others) come with a set of lancets. When the consumable is finished, it is possible to purchase a replacement kit and easily install it in a measuring instrument. In this case, you can choose a more economical option, since
most lancets, for example, universal, are compatible with many models of glucometers ( Contour TC, Satellite Express, others).The use of the lancet has the following advantages:- the needle is sterile, therefore the probability of infection through the blood is minimized;
- universal needles are suitable for any type of appliance, they can be re-applied;
- automatic lancets are used once;
- can be used for puncture with minimal skin damage area;
- is suitable for painless blood sampling from the finger in babies, children of different ages, as well as adults.
In addition, the device, which is called a lancet, is designed in such a way that the needle itself is inserted into a special handle. A person at a blood sampling does not see it entirely, which is important for many users from a psychological point of view. After all, some people, particularly children, do not tolerate the kind of medical instruments.
Varieties
Lancets that can be used as consumables for the meter, according to the principle of operation are divided into:
- universal;
- automatic.
The first type of device is a needle that fits most of the glucometer handles. However, there are exceptions to a number of devices, as the producer reports, as a rule. It is clearly indicated which modifications of the pens are compatible with universal needles. Therefore it is important to carefully study the information on the package.
Automatic lancets are equipped with exchangeable needles. The advantages of models with this type of devices are:
- disposable needles( after use they are recycled or stored in a separate compartment);
- high degree of safety;
- automatic finger puncture depth;
- exchangeable drum with needles for convenient and safe use;
- additional protective mechanism( glucometer contour TC);
- individual selection depending on the age of the patient and the type of his skin.
Automatic lancets for glucometers The TC contour, like the Accu-Chek, models, most painlessly pierce the finger of the when a blood test is performed. At the same time, skin damage is minimal. Therefore, the finger heals faster, which is an important criterion for people making measurements at least 5-6 times a day. Certain needles of this type are activated when a finger is directly attached to them.
Models and technical specifications of
Universal lancets are most adapted to use for most modifications of the meter. For example, for Akku-Chek, Satellite Express. Universal lancets can have the function of adjusting the depth of a finger puncture in blood sampling. This is convenient for children. For safety purposes, a special protective cap is included in some models, for example, lancets for the Accu-Chek Active meter. The advantage of this type is that the needles can be reused. It is convenient and economical, however it is necessary to pay special attention to safety, carefully disinfecting the elements with antiseptics.
For example, the Accu-Chek Active model has the following advantages:
- compact size;
- works on battery;
- model is easy to use( the device is equipped with two buttons);
- liquid crystal display with a choice of language;
- automatic on-off, which saves battery power;
- blood sampling without pain;
- is an affordable price for both Accu-Chek and consumables.
Functional capabilities of the Accu-Chek Active model. The device can be synchronized with the computer, which allows you to track measurement statistics. Other functions include:
- the ability to store measurement results in the memory of the meter( up to 350 operations);
- fixing the date and time of blood sampling( allows you to monitor the dynamics of changes in biochemical blood counts);
- Accu-Chek Active displays the measurement results 5 seconds after filling the strip;
- high accuracy of indicators( the difference between the results of laboratory tests and the values of Accu-Chek Active does not exceed 5%);
- affordable price with high quality work.
Easy management is important. On the LCD display, the large numbers display the results of the analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
People who are faced with choosing a device for measuring blood glucose are often interested in the following points:
- How many times can I use one lancet?
Reuse is cost-effective from an economic point of view, as this reduces the consumption of needles. For this purpose, it is better to choose universal lancets. The automatic type is intended for a one-time procedure, therefore it is disposed of in special containers for storage immediately after its completion.
- How many needles do I need to purchase?
The exact number depends on how many times per day measurements are required. It is important at what stage of the disease( diabetes) analysis is performed. In case of exacerbation, blood sampling is carried out up to 6 times a day. More cost-effective large packages of lancets for the glucometer( Satellite Express, Contour TC).
- Which option is suitable for measuring blood levels at home?
When choosing a device, one should proceed from its functionality and financial capability of the patient. Among the budget options - Satellite Express model "Elta", Accu-Chek Active, Contour TS.Glucometer The circuit of the TC is equipped with a set of 10 lancets, the Satellite Express has 25 pens. Replaceable blocks of lancets are more profitable to purchase from official representatives. For children and the elderly, handles of an automatic type are more convenient to use. You should also pay attention to ease of operation. The Satellite Express models have an encoding that must match the consumables used. Sometimes it causes certain difficulties. The contour of the TS is more simple to operate, since it functions without the introduction of codes, which is more convenient.
- What type of lancets is suitable for satellite meters?
In most cases, universal fit, however, when purchasing, it is necessary to clarify the compatibility of a particular modification with the types of piercing devices.
When you are going to purchase a glucometer, and with it lancets, you should collect all the recommendations received. Before purchasing, you need to calculate the approximate amount of consumable, based on the number of required measurements. This will help to calculate the approximate amount that you have to spend on removable sets of needles, as well as test strips.
