1. Introduction
The CareSens Control Solution is designed for use with the CareSens N Diabetes Testing Kit to verify the accuracy of your blood glucose meter and test strips. This product includes two 4ml vials: a Normal Range control solution (Control A) and a High Range control solution (Control B). It is essential to shake the vial well before each use to ensure proper mixing of the solution.
Image: CareSens Glucose Control Solution bottles (Normal and High Range).
2. When to Perform a Control Solution Test
Your CareSens N meter and test strips are pre-calibrated during manufacturing. Control solution testing is not a calibration tool but a verification method. You should perform a control solution test in the following situations:
- When you open a new vial of test strips.
- If you suspect your meter or test strips are not working correctly.
- If your blood glucose readings are unexpectedly high or low, or inconsistent with your symptoms.
- After cleaning the meter.
- If the meter has been dropped or damaged.
For a visual guide on performing a control solution test, please refer to the video below.
Video: This video demonstrates the step-by-step process of performing a control solution test with the CareSens N meter and control solution.
3. Required Materials
To perform a control solution test, you will need the following items:
- CareSens N Blood Glucose Meter
- CareSens N Test Strip
- CareSens Control Solution (Normal or High Range)
Image: The CareSens N Blood Glucose Monitor, test strips, and control solution are essential for accurate testing.
4. Operating Instructions: Performing a Control Solution Test
- Prepare the Control Solution: Shake the control solution vial vigorously for at least 10 seconds before use. This ensures the solution is properly mixed.
- Insert a Test Strip: Insert a new CareSens N test strip into the meter with the flat part, featuring the lines, facing you. The meter will turn on automatically and display a blood drop symbol, indicating it is ready for testing.
- Apply Control Solution: Remove the cap from the control solution vial. Place a small drop of control solution onto the tip of the vial cap. Touch the tip of the inserted test strip to the drop of control solution. The meter will begin counting down.
- Read the Result: After 5 seconds, the control solution test result will appear on the meter's display.
- Compare Results: Compare the displayed result with the control solution range printed on the test strip vial label. The result should fall within the specified range for the control solution (Control A or Control B) you used.
Image: The CareSens N meter displays the test result after applying the control solution.
5. Marking Control Solution Results
To differentiate control solution results from actual blood glucose readings in your meter's memory, you must mark the control test. While the test strip is still inserted and the result is displayed, press and hold the down arrow button on the meter for 3 seconds. A 'CHECK' symbol will appear on the display, indicating that this result is stored as a control solution test and will not be included in your average blood glucose level calculations.
6. Maintenance
After each use, wipe any excess control solution from the tip of the vial cap with a clean tissue. Securely replace the cap on the control solution vial. Store the control solution at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat, as instructed on the packaging.
7. Troubleshooting
If your control solution test results fall outside the expected range indicated on the test strip vial, consider the following:
- Ensure the control solution vial was shaken well before use.
- Check the expiration date of both the control solution and the test strips. Expired products can give inaccurate results.
- Verify that the test strip vial was properly closed after use to prevent moisture exposure.
- Confirm that the meter and test strips are stored within their recommended temperature ranges.
If you continue to get results outside the expected range after retesting, or if you have any concerns about the accuracy of your meter, please contact your healthcare provider or CareSens customer service for assistance.
8. Product Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 1.75 x 1 x 2.25 inches |
| Product Weight | 0.63 ounces |
| Control Solution Volume | 4ml per vial (Normal Range and High Range) |
| Manufacturer | CareSens N |
| First Available Date | April 26, 2013 |
Control Solution Ranges (Example from Test Strip Vial)
- Control A (Normal Range): 115 - 156 mg/dL
- Control B (High Range): 207 - 280 mg/dL
Note: Always refer to the specific control solution range printed on your current test strip vial, as ranges may vary by batch.
9. Warranty and Support
For any questions, technical support, or warranty information regarding your CareSens products, please contact CareSens customer service. You can typically find contact details on the product packaging or by visiting the official CareSens website. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical advice and interpretation of your blood glucose results.
