Our seven year old son was diagnosed at 18 months of age, and we recently purchased a One Touch� Ultra meter for him. The lancet device that came with it is supposed to also work on alternate sites, such as the arms. However, I can’t seem to get enough blood from his arms, even though it only requires a very small sample. This device seems kind of “flimsy” compared to our previous one, a SoftClix. Would it be possible to try the SoftClix on his arm? Any advice?

Did you get the clear plastic “add-on”? It must be ordered. SoftClix doesn’t allow you to see the drop, a critical point in my view. Another choice is the Bayer VaculanceTM. It uses a vacuum to pull blood to the surface, and does work, albeit it’s a bit big.

LD
Additional comments from Lois Schmidt Finney, diabetes dietitian:

There is an “adapter” that you can get from LifeScan that will allow you to get enough blood from the alternate sites, so please call them and ask for it.

LSF
Additional comments from Dr. Matthew Brown:

If you are having difficulty with the Ultra lancet that can be used on the arm, you may wish to visit with your diabetes educator to see if there is a technique that could help you. In addition, there is another meter on the market that I’ve found works well with alternate site testing. It is the Therasense FreeStyle You may wish to also look into this meter.

MSB
Additional comments from Dr. Stuart Brink:
Not everybody bleeds well from alternate sites. One trick is to hold the lancet device for a few extra seconds. There is also a new device cap for the Ultra lancet that has better luck with some folks. You can use any lancet device that works, of course. Our patients have liked the new Ultra dark blue lancet device and do not think that it is flimsy, and like the adjustable head, etc.

Use any lancet device that you like and that works for you and your family, of course.

SB