How to Fix a Coding Error on a Glucose Monitor

Glucose monitors are a critical tool for diabetics who want to monitor their condition closely. Through self-monitoring at home, a diabetic can make immediate changes in diet, exercise and medication to keep blood sugar levels within her target range. Many glucose monitors require coding; that is, the monitor must be set up to match the code on the bottle of test strips. Accurate blood sugar readings depend on the monitor being coded correctly. A study published in Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that "blood glucose meter coding errors may result in significant insulin dosing errors."

Things You'll Need

• Glucose monitor and product manual
• Test strips

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Instructions

• 1

  Find the code on your package of test strips. The code is usually printed both on the outside of the box and on each individual vial of test strips.

• 2

  Go to the coding screen on your glucose monitor. Each monitor has its own way to access the coding screen. To get help accessing the coding screen, read the manual for the monitor, visit the manufacturer's website or call the manufacturer's customer service department.

• 3

  Enter the code that appears on your package of test strips. The meter will flash the new code or make another visual or audible indication that it has accepted the new code. Exit the coding screen.