Glucose measured by automated blood strip (self-testing) using automated concentration analysis
This test checks your blood sugar level using a simple finger-prick method on a home glucose monitor. It provides a quick estimate of how your blood sugar is currently affected by diet, activity, or medications.
["Quick blood sugar check for managing diabetes or monitoring glucose trends at home."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72516-8
- Short code
- Glucose Bld Strip.auto-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose Bld Strip.auto-sCnc
- 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 This Test Works
Your healthcare provider may recommend using this test if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it. The automated blood strip detects glucose in a small sample of whole blood from your fingertip. The test measures glucose concentration (mg/dL) using an enzymatic method and displays the result within minutes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. Wash your hands thoroughly before testing. Clean your fingertip with an alcohol wipe, then prick it gently with the test strip’s lancet. A small drop of blood will appear. Apply the blood to the test strip, and follow the monitor’s instructions to get your reading.
What the Results Mean
Results from this test provide a snapshot of your current blood sugar level. They are not the same as lab results and may vary slightly due to the test’s method. If you have diabetes, these readings help you adjust your diet, activity, or medication as needed. Always compare results with your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Clinical Significance
Regular glucose monitoring with this method is critical for people with diabetes to prevent complications like high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It helps you detect trends, such as spikes after meals or drops before activity, which can inform lifestyle adjustments or medical decisions.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Why might my glucose monitor show different results than my lab test?
Can I use this test to diagnose diabetes?
How often should I use this test if I have diabetes?
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