Glucose in Whole Blood (Fingerstick/Point-of-Care Glucose Measurement)
This test measures your current blood glucose level using a small drop of blood from your finger. It’s often used to monitor blood sugar levels quickly, especially in settings like hospitals or at home.
["This test helps track your blood sugar in real time for diabetes management or other conditions requiring glucose monitoring."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43151-0
- Short code
- Glucose Meter Device Pnl
- Synonyms
- Glucose Meter Device Pnl
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- CPT
- 82947
- SNOMED
- 260395008
- 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
How the Test Works
A tiny sample of blood is taken from your fingertip using a small prick. The blood is applied to a glucose monitoring device, which uses an electrochemical method to detect glucose levels. Results appear almost instantly, typically within seconds.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have diabetes, pre-diabetes, or if you’re experiencing symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) or before certain procedures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may want to fast (not eat) for 8–12 hours before if your doctor directs it, but fingerstick glucose tests are usually done without fasting. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any prescribed glucose monitoring supplies if testing at home.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. A healthcare professional or you (if testing at home) will clean your fingertip, make a small prick with a lancet, and apply a drop of blood to the glucose monitor. You’ll see the result immediately on the device.
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
Your blood glucose levels can indicate whether your body is processing sugar efficiently. High levels may signal diabetes or poor control of existing diabetes, while low levels can cause dizziness, shakiness, or confusion. Regular monitoring helps adjust medications or lifestyle changes as needed.
How often should I check my blood sugar with this test?
What do the results mean if they’re outside my usual range?
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