David,  These are errors, but whether they are operator error or just stupid mistakes is the question.  I have seen people carrying test strips is zip-lock bags, but not in the original container.  I have watched people not use test strips within the desired time from removing them from the container and wonder why they could not get accurate readings.  I have seen people in the summer stand in direct sunlight when taking test strips out of their container and put them in the meter and then lay the meter in direct sunlight to prick their finger.  If they would have at least shielded them with their body, they might have received more accurate results.  I have seen what may have been meters and test strips in cases baking on the car dashboard to say nothing about the internal heat of the car.  Even in winter, they should not be stored in the car.  When I see this happening, I wonder if they take the same care of their diabetes.  I have seen people handle test strips with wet hands.  While not operator error by the individual with diabetes, I have seen nurses in nursing homes use the same lancet in patient after patient. I hope this helps build a larger database of things not to do.

David Mendosa, Health Guide

1/ 7/13 8:43am

Dear Bob,

 

Those additional mistakes that some people make that you write about in your comment above can really help others avoid the same operator errors. Many thanks.

 

Thanks too for the series of articles that you started to post on "Tips for Glucose Testing" at http://bobsdiabetes.blogspot.com/2013/01/tips-for-glucose-testing-part-1.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ExploringDiabetesType2+%28Exploring+Diabetes+Type+2%29

 

Namaste,

 

David