newby questions

pasquot · #1 (**permalink**) 07-31-2004, 12:32 PM

I was diagnosed 7-28-04 with diabetes. I presume t-2. I bought the one touch ultra system.
Two problems. (1) the instructions say to incert the lancet until is is seated all the way in, replace the top, cock and fire. Problem. it does not penetrate far enough out to pucture. It worked fine the 1st time and that was it. Does it sound like i have a defective unit or someone experienced with it does it sound like im doing something wrong?

(2) The major problem-The 1st time i used the lancet device i did it on the top of one of my fingers. IT HURT A LOT! The 2nd time i tried it was on my arm which was more acceptable but i could not get enough blood to cover the test strip. I don't know if it makes a difference but i have always had very sensitive fingers. I can't tollerate extreme hot or cold. They feel like they burn. To give you an idea of the feeling, my finger was sore for 4 days before i noticed it didn;t hurt anymore. Is this normal, Is there another place to check sugar levels, Do i need a bigger neadle? Has this happened to anyone else? My doctor wants me to check 3 days a week, morning and night. I can't imagine doing that if i have to do that on finger tips. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

BeadieJay · #2 (**permalink**) 07-31-2004, 12:43 PM

Hi pasquot

I was diagnosed 7 weeks ago, so I'm new to this too.

However, I've also got a one-touch ultra, and on my lancet device, you can change the depth of the needle. There should be a means of adjusting it - a knob that you can twist to make the needle go in deeper or less deep. I'm hopeless at explaining - but have a look at your instruction book, it will tell you how to do this.

About where to test...I was told to test at the side of my finger, just below the finger nail. It's apparently less painful there than doing the tip of your finger. I'm a major wimp and hate anything to do with needles, and often wonder how I'm going to cope with finger testing for the rest of my life....but I've kinda got used to it now. It still hurts when I actually puncture the skin, but it's forgotten pretty quickly. I think it's something that we just have to persevere with.

I hope this has helped a little bit. You've found a great forum, there's a great group here who are always happy to help.

Belinda · #3 (**permalink**) 07-31-2004, 01:39 PM

Ok, here is the deal with the lancet device. There should be a knob on the end for you to adjust from 1 to 5. Try each one out for the best fit for you. It may even be marked by dots that get larger.

On places to stick for blood the sides of your fingers should work fine. I sometimes use my forarm too but the kicker there is you have to hold the lancet device firmly in place for 30+seconds in order to bring the blood to the service before you inject. I always think I am going to have a little mark (hickey) but it soon goes away.

As for testing 3 days a week you should be fine and just rotate where you test. Luckily for you it is only 3 days. Some of us test daily many many times

Good Luck

Harold · #4 (**permalink**) 07-31-2004, 03:41 PM

Life Scan does have instructional VIDEOS that should get you through it.

pasquot · #5 (**permalink**) 08-01-2004, 07:46 AM

Thank you all for the replys. 1st. i can follow what others have said about seating the lancet needle, replacing the cap, setting the depth setting, etc. Except it does't work. the needle is not exposed no matter what setting i use.

2nd. To Belinda, i would like more info on using your forearm to get a sample. I take it, the way you are saying is to press the device on your forearm for abouth 30 seconds before you fire the needle. Is that correct? Can i use it directly on a vain? I have tried it just on any part of my arm the 1st time i did it and couldn't get enough blood.

Harold · #6 (**permalink**) 08-01-2004, 08:10 AM

Your not supposed to see the needle! Are you cocking it? It only comes out after cocking it and pushing the release button, but it goes right back in. To test on the forearm use the clear cap and you will need to set it for a deeper setting.

pasquot · #7 (**permalink**) 08-01-2004, 11:06 AM

Thanks again for your replys. I called the customer service for lifescan. and described the problem both with the needle and fingertips. After a lengthy discussion it was determeined that i have a defective lancet device and there is a part missing for the device to let you test blood from less sensative parts of your body other than fingers.

It will take 3-4 days to receive the new parts

Belinda · #8 (**permalink**) 08-01-2004, 04:15 PM

No you can't hit a vein. When I check in my forarm i do it in about the middle between my wrist and elbow. When you hold it down make sure you hold it with force. I usually look (throught he clear attachment for arms) and when I see it redder then the rest I know there is blood there.

PM me if you want step by step or any other help.I will be glad to help