Guest guest Posted March 11, 2008 Report Share Posted March 11, 2008 Um, look at your mail from yesterday. We just discussed this. Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 11, 2008 Report Share Posted March 11, 2008 At first I had difficulty getting the blood into the strip but practice made it easer and now I do it just fine and I am totally blind. My sister who is a diabetic and also a nurse showed me how to do it and someone on this list also helped me. Sometimes you get a bad strip though so that's not your fault. Don't give up, keep doing it till you get it right. Good luck. Joyce Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi Nefertiti, Well, testing 4 times per day will give you practice, and over time, you will improve on your technique. My wife and son are sighted, and until I got the Prodigy Voice, I relied on them to help me check. When I was alone, I made out, but most of my checking was with sighted assistance. Now, however, with the Prodigy Voice, which is a very simple meter to use, I actually do most of my checking, even though my wife or son are near by. Do you happen to have the Prodigy Voice meter? One very nice thing about this meter is it requires less blood than the older Voicemate which I have no idea if you have that meter or not. Bottom line is, keep doing it, and over time you will waste less strips and obtain more consistent results. Find the fingers that work the best and use them. If for instance, your index finger on your left hand is a good one, start pricking the outside for one of the times you use the finger, let's say in the morning, and then the inside of it at dinner. If you stick to a pattern, you'll be able to just prick the finger without worrying about whether or not you've used a particular area only hours ago or not. Dave Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Nefertiti I am totally blind and test 5 or more times a day. Sometimes there is not enough blood, but if you get your fingers warn, squeeze them before testing and then puncture in the area you have squeezed it can help. Other times, I just puncture several times in the same spot in order to get enough blood. LaFrance-Wolf 5120 Myrtus Avenue Temple City, CA 91780 Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti __________ NOD32 2938 (20080311) Information __________ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 My blood flows well actually. It's just that between puncturing, testing, not getting a reading, getting a new strip, inserting it and getting ready to test again, I find that sometimes a new puncture would be best to assure that I have enough blood. Thanks for your response. > Nefertiti > I am totally blind and test 5 or more times a day. Sometimes there is not > enough blood, but if you get your fingers warn, squeeze them before > testing and then puncture in the area you have squeezed it can help. > Other times, I just puncture several times in the same spot in order to > get enough blood. > > LaFrance-Wolf > 5120 Myrtus Avenue > Temple City, CA 91780 > > > Input appreciated > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > __________ NOD32 2938 (20080311) Information __________ > > This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. > http://www.eset.com > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 I use a Contour something or other. It is a great little meter but it’s hard for me to see. I have been looking into talking Glucose meters and the Prodigy Voice is number 1 on my list of options. I plan to be out on my own sometime this year and independence is a huge thing for me. This is why I’m asking gracious people like you to tell me of their methods. I am not totally blind but do have to do re-take sometimes. This got me to thinking of how those with no sight at all do it. My hope is to gain some perspective. Thank you ever so much for sharing. > Hi Nefertiti, > > Well, testing 4 times per day will give you practice, and over time, you > will improve on your technique. My wife and son are sighted, and until I > got the Prodigy Voice, I relied on them to help me check. When I was > alone, I made out, but most of my checking was with sighted assistance. > Now, however, with the Prodigy Voice, which is a very simple meter to use, > I actually do most of my checking, even though my wife or son are near by. > Do you happen to have the Prodigy Voice meter? One very nice thing about > this meter is it requires less blood than the older Voicemate which I have > no idea if you have that meter or not. Bottom line is, keep doing it, and > over time you will waste less strips and obtain more consistent results. > Find the fingers that work the best and use them. If for instance, your > index finger on your left hand is a good one, start pricking the outside > for one of the times you use the finger, let's say in the morning, and > then the inside of it at dinner. > If you stick to a pattern, you'll be able to just prick the finger > without worrying about whether or not you've used a particular area only > hours ago or not. > > Dave > > > > Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 I'm pretty sure the Prodigy voice displays results in a large font. I think you'll find it will help your confidence level since it requires so little blood. The struggles you're having are ones we've all had, and still have, so hang in there and you'll do fine. Dave Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 I have a related question. I have a talking glucose meter. How do I know if the batteries are low. I have been noticing that the meter gives me to low readings. Luckily I have a regular meter and someone is helping me. Thanks. nne _____ From: blind-diabetics [mailto:blind-diabetics ] On Behalf Of Nefertiti Matos Olivares Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 7:08 PM To: blind-diabetics Subject: Re: Input appreciated I use a Contour something or other. It is a great little meter but it’s hard for me to see. I have been looking into talking Glucose meters and the Prodigy Voice is number 1 on my list of options. I plan to be out on my own sometime this year and independence is a huge thing for me. This is why I’m asking gracious people like you to tell me of their methods. I am not totally blind but do have to do re-take sometimes. This got me to thinking of how those with no sight at all do it. My hope is to gain some perspective. Thank you ever so much for sharing. > Hi Nefertiti, > > Well, testing 4 times per day will give you practice, and over time, you > will improve on your technique. My wife and son are sighted, and until I > got the Prodigy Voice, I relied on them to help me check. When I was > alone, I made out, but most of my checking was with sighted assistance. > Now, however, with the Prodigy Voice, which is a very simple meter to use, > I actually do most of my checking, even though my wife or son are near by. > Do you happen to have the Prodigy Voice meter? One very nice thing about > this meter is it requires less blood than the older Voicemate which I have > no idea if you have that meter or not. Bottom line is, keep doing it, and > over time you will waste less strips and obtain more consistent results. > Find the fingers that work the best and use them. If for instance, your > index finger on your left hand is a good one, start pricking the outside > for one of the times you use the finger, let's say in the morning, and > then the inside of it at dinner. > If you stick to a pattern, you'll be able to just prick the finger > without worrying about whether or not you've used a particular area only > hours ago or not. > > Dave > > > > Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 nne, Just as a thought, if you are not sure, try to have someone to check the battery for you, and if it is low, put in a new one. Rowe Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 I've been using my Prodigy Auto code since July 2007 and my batteries lasted about six months. I wish the meter would tell me when the batteries are low. They are really easy to change. A friend of mine who works at AFB told me yesterday that there are a couple new meters being tested but they aren't available in our country yet. So our good old F. D. A. is once again withholding. Joyce Re: Input appreciated nne, Just as a thought, if you are not sure, try to have someone to check the battery for you, and if it is low, put in a new one. Rowe Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 The meter suggestion is really a good one, It's much easier with my sensocard plus, which requires .5 minimols of blood, compared to my Acucheck go, which needs 1.5 Minimols. If you can, wash your hands in warm water, this will make you blead more easily. Also squees the finger you are going to prick around the first joint for about 3 to 5 seconds before pricking. Place the Lancet on your finger where you want to prick, then place your thum against the edge of the lancet. After you prick, keep your thumb in the same spot so you have a pretty good reference point as to where the finger stick is. It does take a lot of practice and trial and error to find what best works for you, but in time you will get it. When I am out and about and want to insure a successfull test, I need to use the tips of my fingers, because the sides of my fingers dont bleed well if at all if I cannot run them under hot water first. Hope this helps, Brett. Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi, Has anyone else been experiencing weird readings on their Prodigy voice? Some times I question mine because I be getting readings in the 50's to 70's and I'm usually really weak and having a low when it's in that range. I'm going to have to get someone to tell me the number on the bottle of strips so I can do a solution test to see if it's in range. Visit http://www.midwest-merchandise.com to take advantage of a 5 percent discount on any consumer electronic item when you register for an account. Otis Blue MidWest-Merchandise Milwaukee WI Phone: Fax: E-mail: o.blue@... Re: Input appreciated nne, Just as a thought, if you are not sure, try to have someone to check the battery for you, and if it is low, put in a new one. Rowe Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about > me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to > use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not > enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike > when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do > you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other > than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi, the senso card's manual says it will tell you when the battery is getting two low, but I have never reached that point. Like you I find that my meter starts giving me strange readings, usually after about 3 months. This is why I keep the Acucheck Go around so periodically I can compair results. When the Sensocards batteries are fine, the results are very simelar, but when they start to stray, it's time for a change. After observing this pattern for a while, I now change the batteries every two months, before the readings get strange. Batteries in talking meters will never last as long as other meters, as the power used to make them talk would probably be a big battery drainner. So I figure changing the batteries, even if it's not necessary yet is better than getting dodgy results and making incorrect adjustments to my insulin. Hope this helps, Brett. Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi, Again, my suggestion with talking meters, since the accuracy of the result is so important, change your batteries much more often than necessary. If you have brand new batteries and still see weird results, get a cheap meter that you can compare with, even if this meter requires sighted assistance. If checking the result against another meter is not satisfactory, take it up with the vendor of your talking meter. My backup meter is an Accucheck Go, which does take quite a bit of blood, but it will give a series of beeps to indicate your result, which still allows a blind person to test themselves. In Australia, they retail for about $60, so aren't expensive. Acu check being a leading company in this field probably means that the meter should be available in most countries, I would imagine. Cheers, Brett. Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about > me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to > use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not > enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike > when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do > you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other > than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 I was told when I was doing the trials of the SensoCard Plus meter, before it came on to the market, the battery should last for about a year, and a warning would be given when the power got low. Being the SensoCard meter, will automatically turn off in five minutes when not in use. The life span of the battery will depend on how often you are testing your blood during the day! Rowe Hi, the senso card's manual says it will tell you when the battery is getting two low, but I have never reached that point. Like you I find that my meter starts giving me strange readings, usually after about 3 months. This is why I keep the Acucheck Go around so periodically I can compair results. When the Sensocards batteries are fine, the results are very simelar, but when they start to stray, it's time for a change. After observing this pattern for a while, I now change the batteries every two months, before the readings get strange. Batteries in talking meters will never last as long as other meters, as the power used to make them talk would probably be a big battery drainner. So I figure changing the batteries, even if it's not necessary yet is better than getting dodgy results and making incorrect adjustments to my insulin. Hope this helps, Brett. Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Otis, I first compared readings between my Voicemate (i.e. Accuchek Advantage) and the original Prodigy a year and a half ago probably. I noticed immediately that the Prodigy appeared to be less accurate when readings were not near the normal range. I then did comparison tests between the Prodigy Voice and the Accuchek as well a couple of months ago when I got it, and the results were the same as with the original prodigy. I also realized the differences were consistent, so I simply understand a reading of 70 on the prodigy to really be more like 50 on the Accucheck. Conversely, the same thing is true with readings above normal. A reading of 140 on the prodigy may be more like 160 on the Accuchek. If anyone has the mind to do so, I for one would appreciate some collaboration of my very unscientific comparisons. I must say that, since I am able to keep my readings much closer to normal than I ever have, the differences in readings don't really bother me since, as I said, when near the normal range, the results between the 2 meters were very similar. Dave Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about > me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to > use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not > enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike > when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do > you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other > than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hmmm, I would like to see that, Smile. When you were testing, did you get that sort of life span? Cheers, Brett. Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi, we use Comfort Curve strips. Not often does it not get enough blood for test. Hope it will work for you. and Joe Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi Anne, It may not be your batteries, it could just be that there is not enough blood in the strip. Ruth Re: Input appreciated I use a Contour something or other. It is a great little meter but it's hard for me to see. I have been looking into talking Glucose meters and the Prodigy Voice is number 1 on my list of options. I plan to be out on my own sometime this year and independence is a huge thing for me. This is why I'm asking gracious people like you to tell me of their methods. I am not totally blind but do have to do re-take sometimes. This got me to thinking of how those with no sight at all do it. My hope is to gain some perspective. Thank you ever so much for sharing. > Hi Nefertiti, > > Well, testing 4 times per day will give you practice, and over time, you > will improve on your technique. My wife and son are sighted, and until I > got the Prodigy Voice, I relied on them to help me check. When I was > alone, I made out, but most of my checking was with sighted assistance. > Now, however, with the Prodigy Voice, which is a very simple meter to use, > I actually do most of my checking, even though my wife or son are near by. > Do you happen to have the Prodigy Voice meter? One very nice thing about > this meter is it requires less blood than the older Voicemate which I have > no idea if you have that meter or not. Bottom line is, keep doing it, and > over time you will waste less strips and obtain more consistent results. > Find the fingers that work the best and use them. If for instance, your > index finger on your left hand is a good one, start pricking the outside > for one of the times you use the finger, let's say in the morning, and > then the inside of it at dinner. > If you stick to a pattern, you'll be able to just prick the finger > without worrying about whether or not you've used a particular area only > hours ago or not. > > Dave > > > > Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Hi Joyce, Your Prodigy Auto Code does tell you when your batteries are low. Unfortunately, the Auto Code tells you with a diagram. The Prodigy Voice does tell you verbally that the batteries are either low or dead and to replace. Ruth From: blind-diabetics [mailto:blind-diabetics ] On Behalf Of Joyce Porter Sent: Wednesday, March 12, 2008 5:26 AM To: blind-diabetics Subject: RE: Input appreciated I've been using my Prodigy Auto code since July 2007 and my batteries lasted about six months. I wish the meter would tell me when the batteries are low. They are really easy to change. A friend of mine who works at AFB told me yesterday that there are a couple new meters being tested but they aren't available in our country yet. So our good old F. D. A. is once again withholding. Joyce Re: Input appreciated nne, Just as a thought, if you are not sure, try to have someone to check the battery for you, and if it is low, put in a new one. Rowe Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 12, 2008 Report Share Posted March 12, 2008 Sometimes ann, when the meter reads low you need to do another test as you may not have put enough blood the end of the strip to get an accurate reading. LaFrance-Wolf 5120 Myrtus Avenue Temple City, CA 91780 Re: Input appreciated I use a Contour something or other. It is a great little meter but it's hard for me to see. I have been looking into talking Glucose meters and the Prodigy Voice is number 1 on my list of options. I plan to be out on my own sometime this year and independence is a huge thing for me. This is why I'm asking gracious people like you to tell me of their methods. I am not totally blind but do have to do re-take sometimes. This got me to thinking of how those with no sight at all do it. My hope is to gain some perspective. Thank you ever so much for sharing. > Hi Nefertiti, > > Well, testing 4 times per day will give you practice, and over time, you > will improve on your technique. My wife and son are sighted, and until I > got the Prodigy Voice, I relied on them to help me check. When I was > alone, I made out, but most of my checking was with sighted assistance. > Now, however, with the Prodigy Voice, which is a very simple meter to use, > I actually do most of my checking, even though my wife or son are near by. > Do you happen to have the Prodigy Voice meter? One very nice thing about > this meter is it requires less blood than the older Voicemate which I have > no idea if you have that meter or not. Bottom line is, keep doing it, and > over time you will waste less strips and obtain more consistent results. > Find the fingers that work the best and use them. If for instance, your > index finger on your left hand is a good one, start pricking the outside > for one of the times you use the finger, let's say in the morning, and > then the inside of it at dinner. > If you stick to a pattern, you'll be able to just prick the finger > without worrying about whether or not you've used a particular area only > hours ago or not. > > Dave > > > > Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 13, 2008 Report Share Posted March 13, 2008 As good as the Comfort Curve strips are, they require much more blood than newer generation strips such as are used by the Prodigy voice. Dave Input appreciated Greetings, It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I am, with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. I wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge when an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your spouse/child/friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? Thanks in advance for any input. Nefertiti Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted March 13, 2008 Report Share Posted March 13, 2008 That's why I'm going to switch to the Prodigy Voice. I can't read a diagram. (Smile) Joyce Re: Input appreciated nne, Just as a thought, if you are not sure, try to have someone to check the battery for you, and if it is low, put in a new one. Rowe Input appreciated > > > Greetings, > > It has been a while since I posted anything of substance. Now, here I > am, > with a question that I hope wont' offend anyone. First a bit about me: > > I test an average of 4 times a day. It has been necessary for me to use > multiple strips at times. The most common reason being that not enough > blood is detected to get a good reading. I strongly dislike when this > happens. Not only do I have to re-puncture usually but it wastes strips. > I > wonder how individuals who are totally blind get passed this obstacle. > > Question: Is there a method to your testing that allows you to judge > when > an appropriate amount of blood has been excreted? (Your > spouse/child/-friend/whoever does not count.) For that matter: How do you > know that the blood is going on the strip as it should be other than > waiting to hear the confirmation beep or whatever it is you hear? > > Thanks in advance for any input. > > Nefertiti > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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