True or False: You can use hand sanitizer to prepare for checking blood sugar.

Using hand sanitizer before checking blood sugar is not advisable because it can leave residues on your skin that may affect the accuracy of the blood glucose reading. Hand sanitizers often contain alcohol and other ingredients that can potentially interfere with the measurement of glucose levels if they are not completely dried off before pricking the finger.

For accurate blood sugar monitoring, it is generally recommended to wash hands with soap and water instead. This method effectively removes dirt, oils, and any substances that could skew the readings, ensuring the blood sample represents true blood glucose levels. In situations where soap and water are unavailable, some guidelines suggest using a mild soap alternative or ensuring that hand sanitizers are fully dried before proceeding, not presenting hand sanitizer as a primary option for preparing for the test.