Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 24 CALIBRATING AND CLEANING THE BLOOD GLUCOSE METER PURPOSE: All blood glucose meters are to be recalibrated and cleaned at regular intervals to ensure proper operation of blood glucose meters being used by nursing staff and to control the spread of infection. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL : RN, LPN PROCEDURE: 1. Recalibrating of Blood Glucose Meter a) Glucose meters should be recalibrated with each new container of test strips. b) New test strips must always be visually examined for any discoloration or damage. The container should be checked for an expiration date and code. c) The testing surface of the test strip should never be touched with fingers . Do not place the testing surface down. d) The test strip container must be kept closed to protect the strips from excessive exposure to extremes in temperature, light and humidity. e) Test strips should be removed one at a time just before use. f ) Test strips and meter should never be left in extreme temperatures. MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. nurses should carry this equipment in the visit bag and not leave it in automobiles when not in use. g) Recalibration is done according to user’s directions manual. 2. Cleaning: Preventive Maintenance a) The meter should be cleaned as need for accidental soiling and at least once per month. b) The outside portions should be cleaned with a towel slightly moistened with soapy water. Do not use alcohol or any liquid which contains bleach. c) A standard strip test should be completed after the meter has been cleaned. 3. Quality Control a) Control testing will be performed each day prior to use and at least once per month. b) Record check strip, and control testing results on the blood glucose log. The completed log will be turned in to supervisor every month. Please note: Identify the type of glucometer being used and attach the manufacturer’s guidelines, as needed. ____________________________________________________