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Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Home blood sugar test

A person with diabetes uses a home blood sugar (glucose) test to measure the level of glucose in their blood. The test can be done on a daily basis at home or anywhere, using a small portable machine (blood glucose meter).

A home blood sugar test involves pricking the skin (usually the side of a finger) with a small needle (lancet) to collect a drop of blood and placing the blood on a special test strip, which is checked by a blood glucose meter. The blood glucose meter gives the results of a blood sugar test right away. The results are fairly accurate for the level of glucose in the blood at the time that the test is done.

Testing blood sugar at home is often called home blood sugar monitoring or self-testing.

Current as of: July 7, 2025

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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