Glucose in Blood (Qualitative Finger-Stick Test)
This test measures blood sugar levels using a small drop of blood from your finger, often done at home or in a clinic.
["Quickly checks if your blood sugar is within a healthy range or if it needs attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5914-7
- Short code
- Glucose Bld Ql Strip
- Synonyms
- Glucose Bld Ql Strip
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 70
- Ref high
- 100
- Critical range
- 50 N/A – 400 N/A
- Fasting
- true
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- test-strip
- CPT
- 82947
- SNOMED
- 260395008
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
A tiny blood sample is collected from your fingertip using a small prick. The blood is applied to a special strip that changes color based on your glucose level. A device reads the color change to provide results.
When You Might Need This Test
Doctors may recommend this test if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or symptoms like extreme hunger, thirst, or fatigue. It’s also used to monitor blood sugar during pregnancy or before certain procedures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may want to eat a small snack if you’re experiencing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) before testing, but it’s not required unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
What the Results Mean
The test gives a qualitative result—either too high, too low, or within normal range—but it doesn’t provide exact numbers. High results may indicate diabetes or poor blood sugar control, while low results could signal hypoglycemia.
Reference range
Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A
Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps monitor blood sugar trends over time, especially in people with diabetes, to adjust medications or lifestyle changes as needed. It’s a simple way to check if your glucose levels are stable or if adjustments are required.
Short name
Glucose Quick Check
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test if I already have diabetes?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How often should I do this test?
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