User manual

Testing a Blood Sample

Integrated Quality Controls

The CoaguChek XS System has quality control functions integrated

into the meter and test strips, so you never have to run quality

control tests with liquid quality controls. The meter automatically

runs its own quality control test as part of every blood test.

When the quality control test runs, the letters QC flash on the

meter’s display. When the quality control test completes, a

checkmark (✓) appears following the letters QC. Then the meter

continues to run the blood test.

If the quality control test fails, the meter displays the following

error message. See the Error Messages section in this manual for

an explanation of this (and other) error messages and what to do

when they occur.

Tips for a Good Fingerstick

For fingerstick blood testing, increasing the blood flow in the finger

will help you get a good drop of blood. Before you prick the finger,

try the following techniques until you see that the fingertip has

good color:

• Warm the hand by having

the patient hold it under his

or her armpit, use a hand

warmer, and/or wash the

hand with warm water.

• Have the patient hold his or

her arm down to the side,

so that the hand is below

the waist.

• Massage the finger from

its base.

If needed, immediately after

pricking, gently squeeze the

finger from the base to

encourage blood to flow.