Walgreens True Metrix Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide details the TRUE METRIX system, preferred by Managed Medicaid plans, ensuring accurate blood glucose testing with TRUE METRIX PRO test strips.
The TRUE METRIX system, available at Walgreens, empowers individuals to proactively manage their diabetes with confidence. This system is designed for simplicity and accuracy, offering a user-friendly experience for consistent blood glucose monitoring. It’s a preferred choice on many Managed Medicaid plans, highlighting its reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Before using the meter, carefully review all product Instructions for Use. The system utilizes TRUE METRIX PRO Blood Glucose Test Strips, ensuring compatibility and precise results. Proper storage of test strips, between 41-104°F and 10-90% humidity, is crucial for maintaining accuracy. The system also features event tagging, allowing users to associate test results with specific events like meals or exercise.
What is the Walgreens True Metrix?
Walgreens True Metrix is a self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) system designed to help individuals with diabetes effectively manage their condition. It comprises a blood glucose meter, test strips, a lancing device, and lancets, all readily available for purchase at Walgreens pharmacies.
Trividia Health, Inc. manufactures the TRUE METRIX system, and it’s recognized for its accuracy and ease of use. The system is compatible only with TRUE METRIX Air test strips, emphasizing the importance of using designated components. It allows for quick and reliable blood glucose testing, providing valuable data for informed healthcare decisions. The meter’s display clearly shows results, and features like event tagging enhance data tracking.
Key Components of the Kit
The Walgreens True Metrix kit typically includes several essential components for effective blood glucose monitoring. These include the True Metrix Air blood glucose meter itself, designed for user-friendliness and accurate results. A supply of True Metrix PRO test strips is provided, crucial for the testing process – remember these are specific to the meter.
Furthermore, the kit contains a lancing device to obtain a small blood sample, along with sterile lancets for a safe and comfortable experience. It’s vital to only use TRUE METRIX lancets. The kit also includes a detailed instruction manual, guiding users through setup, testing, and interpreting results. Proper storage of test strips is also outlined.
Setting Up Your True Metrix Meter
Proper setup is crucial for accurate readings. This involves inserting a battery, setting the correct date and time, and familiarizing yourself with the meter’s display.
Inserting the Battery
Before first use, or when the meter displays a low battery indicator, you’ll need to install or replace the battery. The TRUE METRIX meter typically requires standard 3V coin cell batteries, often CR2032.
Locate the battery compartment, usually on the back of the meter, and gently open it. Pay attention to the polarity markings (+ and -) inside the compartment. Insert the new battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing up, as indicated.
Close the battery compartment securely. The meter should power on automatically. If it doesn’t, double-check the battery’s orientation and ensure it’s making good contact. Always dispose of used batteries responsibly, following local regulations.
Setting the Date and Time
Accurate date and time settings are crucial for proper event tagging and memory recall within your TRUE METRIX meter. Upon initial setup, or after a battery change, the meter will likely prompt you to set the date and time.
Navigate through the meter’s menu using the buttons, typically labeled “Menu” or “Set.” Select the “Date” and “Time” options. Use the up and down arrows to adjust the year, month, day, hour, and minute.
Confirm each setting by pressing the “Menu” or “Set” button again; Ensure you select the correct AM or PM designation. Properly set date and time allow for accurate tracking of your blood glucose readings over time.
Understanding the Meter Display
The TRUE METRIX meter’s display provides essential information at a glance. The primary area shows your current blood glucose result in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Below this, you’ll find indicators for battery life, ensuring the meter is adequately powered for accurate readings.
Event tags, if utilized, will also appear on the display, indicating if the reading was taken before a meal, after exercise, or at bedtime. Error messages, should they occur, will be displayed with corresponding codes for troubleshooting.
Familiarize yourself with the symbols and icons to quickly interpret your readings and meter status. A clear understanding of the display is vital for effective self-monitoring.
Performing a Blood Glucose Test
Accurate testing requires proper preparation of the lancing device, obtaining a sufficient blood sample, and correctly applying it to a TRUE METRIX test strip.
Preparing the Lancing Device
Before initiating a blood glucose test, correctly prepare the lancing device for a comfortable and effective sample collection. First, ensure the device is clean and functioning properly. Then, insert a sterile lancet firmly into the lancing device, twisting to secure it.
Adjust the depth setting on the lancing device according to your skin type and desired blood flow – start with a shallower setting and increase if needed.
Cock the lancing device, priming it for use. It’s crucial to use a new, sterile lancet for each test to prevent infection and ensure accurate results. Never reuse lancets. Proper preparation minimizes discomfort and maximizes blood sample yield for reliable readings with your TRUE METRIX system.
Obtaining a Blood Sample
After preparing the lancing device, gently press it firmly against the side of your fingertip – avoid the center for less discomfort. Press the release button on the lancing device to obtain a small drop of blood.
If the initial attempt doesn’t yield a sufficient sample, gently massage your finger towards the puncture site, avoiding excessive squeezing which can dilute the sample.
A round, hanging drop of blood is ideal for accurate testing. Wipe away the first drop of blood with a clean, dry cloth, as it may contain tissue fluid. Apply the blood immediately to the TRUE METRIX test strip for reliable glucose readings. Avoid reusing the same puncture site repeatedly.
Applying Blood to the Test Strip
Hold the TRUE METRIX test strip with the designated sample area facing upwards. Gently bring the drop of blood to the sample area on the test strip; the strip will automatically draw the blood in.
Do not smear or spread the blood onto the strip. Avoid adding a second drop of blood to the same test strip, as this will cause inaccurate results and trigger an error message.
Ensure the sample area is fully covered with blood for a successful test. The meter will begin counting down, indicating the test is in progress. Wait for the result to appear on the meter display.
Reading and Interpreting Results
After the countdown, your blood glucose result will appear on the meter’s display. The reading is displayed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Compare your result to your target range, as determined by your healthcare provider.
Event tags, if used, will also be displayed alongside the result, providing context for the reading (e.g., before a meal). If the result seems unusually high or low, recheck with a new TRUE METRIX test strip.
Keep a record of your results and share them with your doctor during your appointments for effective diabetes management.
Understanding True Metrix Test Strips
TRUE METRIX test strips require storage between 41-104°F and 10-90% humidity; they are specifically designed for use with True Metrix meters.
Proper Storage of Test Strips
Maintaining the integrity of your TRUE METRIX test strips is crucial for accurate blood glucose readings. Always store the strips in their original vial, tightly closed to protect them from moisture and air.
Ideal storage conditions involve a temperature range of 41 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the strips to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or humidity. Do not store them in a bathroom or near water sources.
Proper storage ensures the chemical reagents on the strip remain stable, providing reliable results. Discard any strips that appear damaged, discolored, or have been exposed to unfavorable conditions. Remember, compromised strips can lead to inaccurate readings and potentially incorrect healthcare decisions.
Test Strip Expiration Dates
Paying close attention to the expiration date on your TRUE METRIX test strips is paramount for accurate blood glucose monitoring. Using expired strips can yield unreliable results, potentially leading to incorrect treatment decisions.
The expiration date is clearly printed on the vial and the individual foil pouch. Never use strips past this date. Expired strips may contain degraded chemicals, affecting their ability to react correctly with your blood sample.
Always check the date before each test. Discard any expired strips safely. Regularly check your supply to ensure you are using current strips. Accurate monitoring relies on using valid, unexpired TRUE METRIX test strips for dependable results.
Compatibility with Meter Models
Ensuring compatibility between your TRUE METRIX test strips and meter is crucial for accurate blood glucose readings. The True Metrix Air meter is specifically designed to work ONLY with True Metrix Air test strips.
Using other brands or types of test strips will likely produce inaccurate results and could damage your meter. Do not attempt to use older TRUE METRIX strips with the Air meter, as they are not designed to function together.
Always verify that the packaging clearly indicates compatibility with your specific TRUE METRIX meter model; Using the correct strips guarantees reliable performance and accurate monitoring of your blood glucose levels.
Control Solution Testing
Control solution testing verifies your meter and test strip functionality, ensuring accurate results. If the control test is within range, recheck your blood glucose.
Why Perform Control Tests?
Performing control tests is crucial to confirm that your True Metrix meter and test strips are working correctly together. It verifies the accuracy of your blood glucose readings, providing confidence in your results.
Factors like improper storage of test strips, temperature fluctuations, or even humidity can affect their performance. Control solution testing helps identify these issues. It’s especially important after opening a new vial of test strips, if you suspect the meter is malfunctioning, or if your blood glucose readings seem inconsistent with how you feel.
Regular control tests ensure reliable data for effective diabetes management, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and treatment plan. This proactive step promotes peace of mind and accurate self-monitoring.
How to Perform a Control Test
To perform a control test, gently mix the control solution vial. Insert a True Metrix test strip into the meter. The meter will display a control solution symbol. Apply one drop of control solution to the designated area of the test strip – do not use blood!
The meter will then analyze the solution and display a result. Compare this result to the range printed on the test strip vial. If the result falls within the specified range, your meter and test strips are functioning correctly. If the result is outside the range, repeat the test or contact Walgreens pharmacy support for assistance.
Always use a fresh test strip for each control test and ensure the control solution is within its expiration date.
Interpreting Control Test Results
Interpreting control test results is crucial for ensuring accuracy. If the control test result is within the range specified on the test strip vial, your True Metrix meter and test strips are working correctly. You can confidently proceed with blood glucose testing.
However, if the result falls outside the acceptable range, it indicates a potential issue. Recheck your technique with a new TRUE METRIX test strip. If the problem persists, do not use the meter for testing and contact Walgreens pharmacy support.
Incorrect control results may stem from expired solution, improper technique, or a faulty meter. Never rely on results if the control test fails.
Advanced Features & Troubleshooting
TRUE METRIX meters offer event tags for tagging test results, memory recall, and error messages with solutions for common issues, enhancing user experience.
Event Tags and Memory Recall
Event Tags are a valuable feature allowing users to categorize their blood glucose test results. These tags can be applied before a test, enabling association with specific events like before meals, after meals, exercise, or medication intake.
This categorization provides a more detailed understanding of how various factors influence blood sugar levels; The TRUE METRIX meter stores a history of test results, offering convenient memory recall. Users can easily review past readings to identify trends and patterns over time.
This historical data is crucial for effective diabetes management and informed discussions with healthcare professionals, aiding in personalized treatment plans and adjustments.
Error Messages and Solutions
The TRUE METRIX meter displays error messages to indicate potential issues during testing. A common error occurs when attempting to reuse test strips, which leads to inaccurate results; always use a fresh strip for each test.
Adding a second drop of blood to a test strip also triggers an error, so avoid this practice. If an error persists, ensure the test strip is properly inserted and within its expiration date.
Refer to the meter’s Instructions for Use for a complete list of error codes and their corresponding solutions. If problems continue, contact Walgreens Pharmacy Support for assistance.
Data Port and Connectivity
The TRUE METRIX system offers data management capabilities, though specific connectivity features vary by meter model. Some models feature a data port allowing for the download of test results to a computer for tracking and analysis.
This enables users and healthcare professionals to monitor blood glucose trends over time, aiding in diabetes management. Event tags, allowing tagging of results before meals or exercise, enhance data interpretation.
Consult your specific meter’s manual for detailed instructions on utilizing the data port and compatible software. Walgreens may offer resources or support for data connectivity.
Maintaining Your True Metrix System
Proper maintenance includes cleaning the meter, safe lancet disposal, and addressing common issues to ensure accurate results and system longevity;
Cleaning the Meter
Regular cleaning of your True Metrix meter is crucial for maintaining accuracy and hygiene. Before cleaning, ensure the meter is turned off. Gently wipe the exterior of the meter with a slightly damp cloth – avoid getting any liquid inside the device.
Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or solvents, as these can damage the meter. Pay particular attention to the test strip port, ensuring no debris or dried blood is present. A cotton swab lightly dampened with water can be used for this purpose.
Allow the meter to air dry completely before inserting a new test strip or using it again. Consistent cleaning contributes to reliable blood glucose readings and extends the lifespan of your True Metrix system.
Lancet Disposal
Safe lancet disposal is paramount to prevent accidental needle sticks and potential infection. Never recap a used lancet, as this significantly increases the risk of injury. Utilize an FDA-cleared sharps container for the disposal of used lancets; these are available at pharmacies like Walgreens.
If a sharps container isn’t readily accessible, a heavy-duty plastic container with a tight-fitting, puncture-resistant lid can be used temporarily – clearly label it “Sharps” and dispose of it properly according to local regulations.
Do not discard lancets in regular trash or recycling bins. Proper disposal protects sanitation workers and the community. Always follow local guidelines for sharps disposal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If experiencing error messages, consult the meter’s display for specific codes and solutions. Inaccurate results may stem from expired or improperly stored test strips; ensure they are within the 41-104°F and 10-90% humidity range. Never reuse test strips or add a second blood drop, as this causes errors.
Control test failures indicate a potential issue with the meter or strips. Repeat the control test with a new strip; if it persists, contact Walgreens pharmacy support. Ensure the lancing device is functioning correctly and the lancet is fresh.
For connectivity issues, verify the data port is clean and compatible with your system.
Walgreens Specific Information
Walgreens offers the Premium True Metrix meter with convenient pickup and same-day delivery options, alongside dedicated pharmacy support for all your needs.
Purchasing True Metrix at Walgreens
Walgreens provides a convenient avenue for acquiring the True Metrix Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose System. Customers can easily purchase the meter and accompanying test strips both in-store and online through the Walgreens website.
The Walgreens website often features the Premium True Metrix meter in black, complete with customer reviews to aid in your decision-making process. Furthermore, Walgreens offers options for quick access to your supplies, including convenient pickup services and same-day delivery where available.
Checking the Walgreens weekly ad is recommended, as promotional offers and discounts on True Metrix products may be available. Ensure you select the correct test strips compatible with your specific True Metrix meter model for accurate results.
Walgreens Pharmacy Support
Walgreens pharmacies offer valuable support for users of the True Metrix system. Pharmacists are available to answer questions regarding the meter, test strips, and proper usage techniques, ensuring accurate blood glucose monitoring.
They can also assist with understanding your test results and provide guidance on managing your diabetes effectively. Walgreens pharmacists can clarify information found in the product Instructions for Use, helping you navigate the system confidently.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Walgreens pharmacy for personalized assistance and support related to your True Metrix meter and supplies. They are a key resource for optimizing your diabetes management journey.
True Metrix and Managed Medicaid Plans
Trividia Health, Inc. proudly announces that TRUE METRIX Self-Monitoring Blood Glucose Systems are a preferred choice on numerous Managed Medicaid Plans. This accessibility ensures a wider range of individuals can benefit from reliable and accurate blood glucose monitoring.
Coverage details vary depending on your specific plan, so it’s essential to verify benefits with your Medicaid provider. Walgreens can assist in navigating this process, helping you understand your coverage for True Metrix meters and test strips.
This preferred status reflects the quality and dependability of the True Metrix system, making diabetes management more attainable for many.