How to Prescribe Softclix Lancets
Prescribe Softclix lancets as part of a comprehensive self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) system for any patient with diabetes who requires blood glucose monitoring, with the quantity based on their individualized monitoring frequency protocol.
Core Prescribing Framework
SMBG is an integral part of diabetes management and education, and all patients with diabetes should perform SMBG 1. The lancets are a necessary component of this monitoring system.
Prescription Components
When writing the prescription, include:
- Product: Softclix lancets (or generic equivalent lancet device)
- Quantity: Based on monitoring frequency (see below)
- Refills: Typically 3-12 months depending on insurance and patient needs
- Instructions: "Use with blood glucose meter for self-monitoring as directed"
Determining Monitoring Frequency
The number of lancets to prescribe depends on the patient's treatment regimen 1:
Patients on insulin therapy should monitor glucose levels more actively and require:
- Multiple daily testing (typically 4-6 times daily for intensive insulin regimens)
- Prescribe 150-200 lancets per month
Patients on basal insulin only should:
- Focus on fasting glucose levels
- Test 1-2 times daily minimum
- Prescribe 60-90 lancets per month
Patients on oral medications or lifestyle modification:
- Monitoring frequency varies based on glycemic control
- Typically 1-4 times daily
- Prescribe 30-120 lancets per month
Important Clinical Considerations
Lancet Selection Rationale
While the evidence doesn't specifically address Softclix brand superiority, research shows that contact-activated lancets produce less perceived pain while obtaining adequate capillary blood volume for glucose monitoring 2. Alternate site testing with newer lancet devices appears virtually painless and improves compliance 3.
Patient Education Points
Critical teaching elements when prescribing lancets:
- Single-use only: Although studies show 71.9% of patients reuse lancets 1-5 times 4, this practice should be discouraged due to infection risk and decreased accuracy
- Proper technique: Operator-related errors are more significant than instrument errors 5
- Adequate blood drop: Emphasize obtaining sufficient blood volume using proper lancet technique 6
- Never share: Lancets must never be shared between individuals 4
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Under-prescribing: Ensure quantity matches the recommended monitoring frequency for the patient's treatment regimen
- Lack of education: Simply prescribing without teaching proper technique leads to operator errors that compromise accuracy 5
- Ignoring pain concerns: Address patient concerns about discomfort, as this affects compliance; newer lancet technologies significantly reduce pain 2, 3
Integration with Overall Glucose Monitoring
The lancet prescription should be part of a complete SMBG system that includes:
- Blood glucose meter
- Test strips (matched to meter)
- Lancet device and lancets
- Control solution for meter calibration
The monitoring protocol should be individualized based on treatment regimen, with patients on insulin requiring more frequent testing than those on oral agents alone 1.