How to Change a Lancet

Lancets are used to puncture the skin in order to obtain a blood sample for glucose monitoring of diabetics, or other tests that require one or two drops of blood. It is important to change a lancet after each use in order to avoid introducing bacteria, germs or other contaminants into the bloodstream and to ensure accuracy of test results.

Things You'll Need

• Lancing device Disposable lancets Rubbing alcohol Sharps or biohazard container

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove the tip of the lancing device. Most lancing devices have a tip that will unscrew.

• 2

  Insert a disposable lancet into the lancet holder or lancet carrier, and twist off the protective plastic that covers the sharp point of the lancet. Replace the tip of the device.

• 3

  Puncture your finger with the lancing device and follow the testing procedure per doctor or device instructions. When you have stopped bleeding and completed your test, remove the tip of the lancing device.

• 4

  Stick the sharp tip of the used lancet into the protective plastic covering that you twisted off earlier. This will help avoid an accidental puncture.

• 5

  Grip the holder, or carriage, of the lancet device and pull the disposable lancet out of the device.

• 6

  Dispose of the used disposable lancet into a sharps container for safe disposal.

• 7

  Clean the lancet device with 70 percent rubbing alcohol or a cloth and soap and water. It is now ready for the next use.