Measurement of HbA ₁ using patient‐collected finger‐prick specimens

Despite accepting finger‐prick blood glucose monitoring most children with diabetes retain an intense dislike of venepunctures. We have developed and evaluated a simple method for children to collect finger‐prick samples of blood, and if necessary post them to the laboratory for HbA₁ measurement. Comparison of capillary and venous samples in a group of 50 adult diabetic subjects shows close correlation. This allows children to be relieved of the fear of clinic venepuncture.