According to CDC guidelines, when should a blood glucose meter be disinfected?

Disinfecting a blood glucose meter after each patient use is crucial for preventing the transmission of infections. The CDC emphasizes the importance of infection control practices, especially in healthcare settings where equipment is shared among multiple patients.

Blood glucose meters can be contaminated with blood and other bodily fluids, and if not properly cleaned, they can serve as a vehicle for pathogens, potentially leading to cross-contamination between patients. Therefore, diligent disinfection practices after each use ensure that the meter is safe for subsequent patients, thereby minimizing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

Regular cleaning may be necessary, but the most critical time occurs after each patient interaction to maintain high standards of safety and hygiene. This aligns with the broader principles of infection prevention and control that healthcare providers are required to uphold in their practice.