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Handheld
ContrastCommon Tests
Most blood work can be done by finger pick.
Please let the diabetes team know if your child is highly anxious about having blood work done.
Test |
Frequency |
Target Range / Rationale |
| Glycated Hemoglobin (GHB) - measures an average of how well the blood glucose has been controlled over a three month period | At each clinic visit, minimum every three to four months. Done by fingerpick |
|
| Glucometer Accuracy Check - you must let the nurse who takes your blood know if you want your meter checked | Recommended every 6 months. Done by needle. You must ask the nurse to do before she takes your blood | Meter must be within 20% of lab result |
| Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) - measures how well the thyroid gland is working | Once per year and more often if not normal. Done by needle | Thyroid disease is rare but may be seen in patients with Type 1 diabetes. |
| Fasting Lipids - to check how well the kidneys are working | Your physician will let you know if this test is required | Must be interpreted in terms of blood glucose control and other risk factors |
| Albumin/Creatinine Ratio - to check how well the kidneys are working |
|
To screen for early signs of renal (kidney) disease |
| Opthamology/Optometry - checks the small blood vessels in the eyes. This is not a vision test and the pupils must be dilated to have this test done (drops in eyes) | Five years after diagnosis then every 1-2 years | To screen for signs of early retinal (eye) changes |
| Foot Care Awareness - to prevent foot problems in the future | At age 16, then each year | To promote healthy nail and foot care |
