Glucose, Whole Blood — Concentration
Measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in whole blood to help assess blood sugar control and diagnose or monitor high or low glucose levels.
["This test measures blood sugar and can help identify or monitor problems with glucose control."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24092-9
- Short code
- A-NAG WBC-cCnt
- Synonyms
- A-NAG WBC-cCnt
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.5
- Ref high
- 11
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 30 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85004
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Whole blood glucose testing measures the concentration of glucose, the sugar used by the body for energy, in a blood sample. Results may be used to evaluate symptoms of abnormal blood sugar or monitor diabetes treatment.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test when someone has symptoms of high or low blood sugar, during routine diabetes care, or when assessing treatment and glucose-control goals. It may also be used to investigate symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, shaking, blurred vision, unusual thirst, or frequent urination.
How is the test performed?
A small blood sample is collected, and the laboratory or point-of-care device measures its glucose concentration. The sample may be taken from a vein or by fingerstick, depending on the testing method and clinical setting.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by your clinician. Some tests require fasting, while others may be performed at a scheduled time or after a meal or glucose drink. Do not fast unless you have been specifically instructed to do so.
Reference range
Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A higher-than-expected glucose result may indicate impaired blood sugar control or diabetes, particularly when the elevation is repeated. A lower-than-expected result can occur with prolonged fasting, excessive diabetes treatment, medication effects, or other conditions that affect glucose levels. Interpret the result alongside the testing conditions, symptoms, medications, and other laboratory findings.
Short name
Whole Blood Glucose
Frequently asked questions
Is whole blood glucose the same as a standard blood glucose test?
Do I need to fast before this test?
Can a home glucose meter provide a similar result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy