Evaluation of lancets for pain perception and capillary blood volume for glucose monitoring.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess patient pain perception and capillary blood volume of four currently marketed lancets [BD Microtainer Contact-Activated Lancet, Low Flow (Contact-Activated Lancet); LifeScan OneTouch SureSoft Gentle (OneTouch SureSoft Gentle); BD Genie Blue; SurgiLance Safety] in a diabetic population following routine finger-puncture procedures and glucose monitoring.

METHODS

Data were collected from adult subjects diagnosed with type I or type II diabetes mellitus at a 300-bed US hospital following finger-puncture procedures for glucose monitoring. Based on quantitative and qualitative measurements, each blood collection device was evaluated for pain perception and calculated total capillary blood volume.

RESULTS

A total of 80 subjects received four skin punctures in an alternating finger and hand sequence using each lancet. The ten clinicians (nurses and phlebotomists) conducted the study, collected and then calculated total capillary blood volume. It was determined that the Contact-Activated Lancet produced less perceived pain and bleeding, while obtaining an adequate capillary blood volume for glucose monitoring.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that the Contact-Activated Lancet provided an adequate sample volume required for blood glucose monitoring. In addition, less perceived pain was elicited with this lancet when compared with the other lancets evaluated in the study.