How do I use the test strip with my blood glucose meter?

There are several things you can do with your test strips to make sure you get the most accurate reading possible with your glucose meter, according to the Food and Drug Administration. First, make sure your test strips are compatible with your meter. Small differences in test strips can affect results. Check the test strips' expiration date. If you use an expired strip, you may get an inaccurate result. Read the instructions carefully to make sure you put enough blood on the test strip to get an accurate reading. Insert the test strips completely into the meter guides. Finally, run quality control tests as directed by the manufacturer, even if the strips haven't yet reached their expiration date. As often as possible, check the results from your meter against laboratory test results.