Blood glucose monitors

We evaluated eight blood glucose monitors (BGMs), from six manufacturers, that are lightweight, portable, battery-powered, relatively inexpensive handheld reflectance photometers that use test strips for self-monitoring of blood glucose levels. We primarily considered the issues of operator training and human factors in rating the units for both hospital and home use. Seven of the units were rated Acceptable for both uses, and the Larken Glucochek SC was rated Unacceptable for both hospital and home use.