American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Histotechnician Certification Practice Exam

What is the purpose of running low and high controls for a glucose meter?

1. To ensure accuracy of patient sample results

2. To calibrate the meter for different environments

3. To determine the effectiveness of the glucose solution

4. To compare with other diagnostic tests

The correct answer is: To ensure accuracy of patient sample results

The purpose of running low and high controls for a glucose meter is to ensure the accuracy of patient sample results. This process involves testing the meter with a known low glucose control solution and a known high glucose control solution, which allows the laboratory personnel to verify that the meter is performing within the expected ranges for accuracy before patient samples are tested. By utilizing control solutions that have established glucose levels, any discrepancies in the meter’s readings can be identified and addressed, ensuring that the results from actual patient samples are reliable and valid. This practice is essential in maintaining quality control within a clinical laboratory setting and helps to identify any potential issues with the glucose meter itself, such as malfunctioning sensors or calibration errors. Accurate glucose monitoring is crucial for managing conditions like diabetes, making the consistent performance of the glucose meter vital for patient care.