Which instrument is used to check RBS?

Appeared in: RRB Staff Nurse Delhi-2015

Explanation

A glucometer is a portable medical device specifically designed to measure the concentration of glucose in the blood.
RBS stands for Random Blood Sugar, a common test to check glucose levels at any time of day.
The device works by analyzing a small drop of capillary blood placed on a test strip, providing a rapid result.
The name itself gives a clue: 'Gluco-' refers to glucose, and '-meter' refers to a measuring device.

Option A: A pulse oximeter measures the oxygen saturation of the blood (SpO₂) and pulse rate. It does not measure glucose levels.
Option C: A cardiac monitor is used for continuous observation of a patient's cardiac rhythm (ECG), blood pressure, and other vital signs, primarily in critical care settings. It does not measure blood sugar.
Option D: An ECG (Electrocardiogram) machine records the heart's electrical activity for a short period to diagnose cardiac abnormalities. It is a diagnostic tool, not a monitoring device for blood sugar.

Visual 1: Image - A standard glucometer kit, showing the meter, a vial of test strips, a lancing device, and lancets. This helps learners visually identify the correct instrument and its components.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of common medical diagnostic instruments as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Accurate blood glucose monitoring is a fundamental nursing skill, critical for managing patients with diabetes mellitus, identifying emergencies like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, and guiding treatment (e.g., insulin administration).
Nurses are responsible for ensuring the glucometer is calibrated, using the correct technique, interpreting the results in the context of the patient's condition, documenting findings, and reporting critical values immediately.
What if? If a patient suddenly becomes confused or loses consciousness, checking the RBS with a glucometer is a priority nursing action to quickly rule out or confirm a life-threatening glycemic event.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of common medical equipment.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'RBS'.
Recall the full form of RBS, which is 'Random Blood Sugar'. This immediately points to a test related to glucose.
Examine the options. The term 'Glucometer' contains the root 'gluco,' which relates to glucose.
Mentally review the function of each instrument to confirm your choice and eliminate the distractors. A pulse oximeter checks oxygen, while cardiac monitors and ECG machines check heart activity.
Select the instrument whose function directly matches the test required.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full RRB Staff Nurse Delhi-2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.