When choosing a blood lancet, you should consider several factors. The lancet should be sterile and come with a handle so that the unit can be firmly grasped during use. A spring mechanism is an important feature for this device as well. You also should select an item that has an adjustable depth to collect the blood sample quickly and efficiently.
This type of device is used in diabetes testing to monitor blood glucose levels so that the appropriate level of insulin can be given. It also is used to perform heel pricks on infants for blood testing in hospitals. A blood lancet that is used for this purpose must be able to capture a drop of blood that can be analyzed in a laboratory to screen for certain disorders.
The lancet must puncture the skin to obtain a blood sample for testing purposes, so it must be packaged in a manner that will ensure that it remains sterile. Make sure that the blood lancet doesn’t slip during use. A handle that has good finger grips will help ensure that this does not occur.
People who are living with diabetes must test their blood glucose levels at different points throughout the day, so the best blood lancets for their needs are ones that can help them collect the required sample with a minimum of discomfort. A fine blood lancet is less likely to hurt as it punctures the skin, and many diabetics find it helpful to use different spots on their fingers or arm when they need to check their blood sugar. Using the same spot repeatedly can lead to discomfort and can cause calluses in the fingertips.
The best blood lancets are adjustable so that the user can set it at a precise level for penetrating the skin. The idea is to use the least amount of force that is necessary to collect a sample. Lancets are offered in many sizes, or gauges. A person who has callused hands might need to use a thicker lancet to get a sample for testing.
If you are looking for a quality blood lancet, you might need to experiment with units of different gauges before finding the right one. No matter which model you select, be sure to read the instructions carefully before using it. This advice is especially important if the lancet is adjustable.