What will be taught in the blood glucose monitoring class?
1. Monitor set up and care
2. Blood glucose testing techniques
3. Verification of meter with a laboratory plasma fasting glucose and factory control testing
4. When to test blood glucose
5. Goal setting for blood glucose test results
6. Diary keeping
7. Interpreting test results
8. Guidelines for calling your doctor

What do I need to bring to class?
1. Physician's order for blood glucose monitor training and plasma fasting glucose
2. Insurance referral if needed. If insurance company does not allow you to use Hagerstown Medical Laboratory, call the diabetes center medical secretary for instructions: 301-714-4041. 
3. Blood glucose monitor and current test strips
4. If this is a new monitor, bring starter kit and manual
5. If this is a monitor that you have been using for a while, bring the diary of test results.

How long to I need go without food before the class?
1. You need eight hours without food.
2. You may drink water but no coffee, tea, or other liquids - just water. In fact we want you to drink at least one glass of water the night before and morning of testing.

What medications can I take before the class?
1. Do not take any of your diabetes medications - bring them with you.
2. You may take heart or pain medications if you can take them on an empty stomach with just water.
3. Bring all other morning medications.
4. Bring a breakfast with you or money to purchase one at the Robin's Nest.

What other tests are done to measure blood glucose control?
The HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin) test measures the amount of sugar attached to the red blood cell. This test gives you a three-month average of your blood sugar. If the test has not been done in the physician's office within three months, it can be done with the fasting blood glucose with a physician's order.