True or False: It is acceptable to use hand sanitizer to prep for checking blood sugar.

Using hand sanitizer to prep for checking blood sugar is not acceptable because it may not effectively remove organic materials or contaminants that could interfere with the testing process. Blood glucose testing requires a clean and dry skin surface to ensure accurate readings.

Hand sanitizer, while effective in killing certain pathogens, typically contains alcohol or other agents that might not be rinsed away completely, which can leave residues on the skin. These residues can affect the blood sample taken for glucose testing. Therefore, washing hands with soap and water is preferred, as it cleans the skin surface more effectively and helps prevent any contaminants from affecting the results.

Choosing to use hand sanitizer could lead to inaccurate readings or potentially skewed results, which makes proper hygiene before checking blood sugar critical in clinical practices.