Glucose in Blood (Capillary Blood, Automated Quantitative Measurement)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood using a small drop from your fingertip. It helps monitor blood sugar levels, often used in diabetes management.
["Quick blood sugar check to track diabetes or other health conditions requiring glucose monitoring."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2340-8
- Short code
- Glucose Bld Strip.auto-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose Bld Strip.auto-mCnc
- 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-automated
- 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 taken from your fingertip using a sterile lancet. The sample is applied to a glucose test strip that detects glucose levels. Your healthcare provider uses an automated device to read the strip and provide results.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to check for diabetes, monitor blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, or assess conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). It can also be part of routine health screenings or during pregnancy.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a bleeding disorder. Avoid eating or drinking (except water) for 10–15 minutes before the test if instructed, as it may affect results.
What to Expect During the Test
The test takes just a few seconds. You’ll feel a small pinch as the blood sample is collected. The automated device processes the sample quickly and provides results on-screen.
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 is critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes, hypoglycemia, or other metabolic conditions. High or low glucose levels can indicate underlying health issues like kidney disease, liver problems, or hormonal imbalances. Regular monitoring helps prevent complications like nerve damage, heart disease, or vision problems.
Short name
Blood Glucose Test (Automated)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What do my results mean?
Can I eat or drink before 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