How to Use On Call Plus Glucometer & Test Strips

How to use On Call Plus glucometer and test strips step by step

The On Call Plus Blood Glucose Monitoring System is designed to measure blood glucose using compatible On Call Plus Test Strips. Correct meter setup, strip compatibility, code-chip installation and blood application are important parts of the testing process.

This step-by-step guide explains how to use the On Call Plus glucometer, from preparing the meter and inserting the test strip to obtaining a blood sample, applying it correctly and understanding what to do if the meter displays an error.

If you need a broader overview of the system, start with our On Call Plus Glucometer & Test Strips Complete Guide .

To shop compatible meters and strips, visit the On Call Plus Glucometer & Test Strips Collection .

Before Using the On Call Plus Glucometer

Before performing a blood glucose test, make sure you have the correct components and understand the basic compatibility requirements.

On Call Plus blood glucose meter
Compatible On Call Plus Test Strip
Correct On Call Plus code chip
Lancing device
New sterile lancet
Clean, dry hands
Suitable sharps disposal method for the used lancet

The traditional On Call Plus system is a code-chip based glucose monitoring system. When you change to a new box of test strips, follow the instructions supplied with that box and use the applicable code chip.

For a detailed explanation, see:

On Call Plus Code Chip & Coding Guide →

On Call Plus Testing: Quick Overview

Step	What to Do
1	Wash and thoroughly dry your hands.
2	Confirm the correct On Call Plus code chip is installed.
3	Insert a fresh compatible On Call Plus Test Strip.
4	Wait for the meter's blood-drop / strip-ready symbol.
5	Prepare the lancing device with a new sterile lancet.
6	Obtain an adequate blood drop.
7	Touch the blood drop to the sample tip of the strip.
8	Allow the check window to fill and wait for the countdown.
9	Read the result after approximately 10 seconds.
10	Remove and dispose of the used strip and lancet appropriately.

Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hands

Before testing, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.

Clean hands help reduce the possibility of substances on the skin affecting the blood sample. Thorough drying is also important because water remaining on the finger can dilute the sample.

Avoid testing with visibly dirty, wet or contaminated hands.

Step 2: Check That You Have On Call Plus Test Strips

Before inserting a strip, confirm that the product is specifically intended for the On Call Plus system.

Do not select strips only because they carry the On Call brand name.

For example:

On Call Plus meter → On Call Plus Test Strips
On Call Extra meter → On Call Extra Test Strips
On Call GK Dual → its specified glucose or ketone strip system

If you are uncertain about your strips, read:

On Call Plus Test Strip Compatibility Guide →

Step 3: Check the On Call Plus Code Chip

The On Call Plus system uses a code chip as part of its calibration process.

When starting a new box of test strips, use the code chip supplied with that applicable strip box according to the manufacturer's instructions.

The meter code and strip code should correspond as instructed for the product you are using.

Do not assume that an old code chip should remain in the meter when changing to a new box of strips.

If the meter displays CODE, E-7 or E-9, refer to our model-specific troubleshooting information:

On Call Plus Error Codes & Troubleshooting Guide →

Step 4: Insert the On Call Plus Test Strip

Remove a fresh strip from its packaging or container.

Insert the strip into the meter's strip port with the contact-bar end first and facing upward, following the strip orientation shown in the meter instructions.

Inserting a new strip normally switches the meter into test mode.

Do not:

use a strip that has already been used,
use a visibly damaged or contaminated strip,
bend the strip,
force the strip into the port, or
remove the strip after testing has started.

Step 5: Wait for the Blood-Drop Symbol

This is a particularly important step.

After inserting the test strip, wait until the meter shows the appropriate blood-drop / test-strip ready symbol before applying blood.

Applying blood before the meter is ready can generate an E-3 error.

Do not place blood on the strip first and then insert it into the meter unless the instructions for your exact product specifically state otherwise.

Step 6: Prepare the Lancing Device

Use a new sterile lancet for obtaining the blood sample.

Insert the lancet into the compatible lancing device and adjust the penetration depth according to the lancing device instructions and your skin characteristics.

Lower depth settings may be sufficient for delicate skin, while thicker or calloused skin may require a greater penetration setting.

Never share a lancet between individuals.

Step 7: Obtain a Blood Drop

For routine fingertip testing, place the prepared lancing device against the side or appropriate area of the fingertip and activate it according to the lancing-device instructions.

The On Call Plus system requires approximately 1 µL of fresh capillary whole blood for a glucose test.

You need an adequate blood drop to allow the test-strip sample area to fill correctly.

If the sample is too small, the meter may display an E-5 insufficient-sample error.

Step 8: Apply Blood to the Correct Part of the Strip

This is one of the most common areas where testing mistakes occur.

Touch the blood drop to the sample tip at the end of the On Call Plus Test Strip.

Do not place the blood on top of the strip.

Allow the blood to be drawn into the strip through the sample tip. Keep the blood drop in contact with the sample tip until:

the strip's check window is adequately filled, and
the meter begins its countdown.

Once the meter has accepted the sample and started the test, leave the strip in place.

Step 9: Wait for the Result

After an adequate sample has been detected, the On Call Plus meter begins the measurement countdown.

The system typically provides a glucose result in approximately 10 seconds.

Do not remove the strip while the test is in progress. Removing it prematurely can cause an E-2 error.

Step 10: Read the Glucose Result

When testing is complete, the glucose result appears on the meter display.

The On Call Plus meter's documented measurement range is approximately 20–600 mg/dL.

A numerical result should be interpreted according to the glucose-management plan given to you by an appropriate healthcare professional.

The meter itself does not determine whether you should change medication, insulin dosage, diet or treatment.

What Does HI Mean on On Call Plus?

A HI display means the measured glucose concentration is above the meter's approximately 600 mg/dL upper measurement limit.

Follow the meter instructions and repeat the test correctly with a fresh strip to exclude a procedural error.

If a HI reading is confirmed, seek prompt medical advice.

For detailed HI/LO guidance:

On Call Plus HI, LO & Error Code Guide →

What Does LO Mean on On Call Plus?

A LO display means the glucose result is below the meter's approximately 20 mg/dL lower measurement limit.

If LO is repeated or symptoms of severe hypoglycaemia are present, follow your healthcare professional's emergency plan and obtain urgent medical assistance when necessary.

Step 11: Remove the Used Test Strip

After reviewing the result, remove the used test strip from the meter.

A used strip should not be reinserted or reused.

Dispose of the strip according to appropriate household, clinical or local waste requirements applicable to your situation.

Step 12: Safely Dispose of the Used Lancet

The lancet is a sharp object contaminated with blood after use.

Do not leave exposed used lancets in ordinary open waste where another person could be injured.

Follow applicable local guidance for disposing of used sharps.

How Much Blood Does On Call Plus Need?

The On Call Plus system has a minimum sample requirement of approximately 1 µL.

Using too little blood can prevent the strip from filling correctly and may produce an E-5 insufficient-sample error.

If E-5 appears, use a new strip and repeat the procedure with an adequate sample.

Where Exactly Should Blood Be Applied?

Blood should be applied to the sample tip of the On Call Plus Test Strip.

The blood is drawn into the strip from the sample tip.

Do not place blood directly on the flat upper surface of the test strip, as incorrect sample application may interfere with proper testing.

How Do I Know When Enough Blood Has Been Applied?

Continue holding the blood drop against the sample tip until the check window is filled as instructed and the meter begins the countdown.

Do not remove the blood drop too early if the strip has not filled correctly.

If the meter reports an insufficient-sample error, follow the troubleshooting instructions and use a new strip where required.

Can I Add More Blood After an Insufficient Sample?

Do not assume that the Plus system has the same re-dosing behaviour as On Call Extra.

If the On Call Plus meter reports insufficient sample, follow the Plus-specific instructions and use a fresh strip when directed.

On Call Extra is a separate system with its own manufacturer-supported short re-dosing feature.

For the differences, read:

On Call Plus vs On Call Extra Glucometer Comparison →

How to Prepare the On Call Plus Meter for a New Box of Strips

When starting a new box of On Call Plus Test Strips:

Confirm the box is intended for On Call Plus.
Check the applicable expiry information.
Remove the code chip supplied with the new box.
Insert the applicable code chip into the meter.
Confirm the coding setup according to the product instructions.
Store the strips according to manufacturer guidance.

For the complete coding process, visit:

On Call Plus Code Chip & Coding Guide →

How to Store On Call Plus Test Strips

Proper strip storage is important because test strips contain reagents that can be affected by unsuitable environmental conditions.

The On Call Plus instructions describe storage in a cool, dry place at approximately 15–30°C, away from heat and direct sunlight. The strips should not be refrigerated or frozen.

For vial-packed strips:

keep them in their original container,
close the container promptly after removing a strip,
protect the strips from humidity, and
do not transfer them into an unrelated container.

For individually foil-packed strips, keep the individual packet sealed until the strip is required.

Read:

On Call Plus Test Strips Expiry & Storage Guide →

Can I Use Expired On Call Plus Test Strips?

Use strips only within the applicable expiry or use-by information stated on the product packaging.

Do not rely on an old website image or previous order to determine the expiry of the current physical batch.

If you purchase larger quantities such as 100 or 200 strips, consider your expected testing frequency and whether you can appropriately use and store the quantity within the applicable period.

Using a Control Solution with On Call Plus

A control solution test is a system check rather than a personal blood glucose test.

It is used to help confirm that the meter and test strips are working together properly and that the test procedure is being performed correctly.

The On Call Plus instructions include control testing as part of system quality checking, including when first becoming familiar with operation and in other circumstances described in the user manual.

Always use the appropriate control solution and follow the dedicated control-test procedure rather than applying control solution as if it were a blood sample.

Common Mistakes When Using On Call Plus

Mistake	Possible Problem
Using On Call Extra strips	Strip incompatibility
Incorrect code chip	CODE or code-chip related error
Applying blood before the meter is ready	E-3 error
Using an old or contaminated strip	E-4 error
Applying too little blood	E-5 error
Removing the strip during testing	E-2 error
Testing with a severely depleted battery	E-6 error
Applying blood to the top of the strip	Incorrect sample application

For complete troubleshooting:

On Call Plus E0–E6 Error Codes & Troubleshooting Guide →

Why Is My On Call Plus Meter Not Reading the Strip?

If the meter does not recognise an inserted strip, check:

that you are using an On Call Plus Test Strip,
that the strip is facing the correct direction,
that the contact-bar end is inserted first,
that the strip is fully inserted,
that the strip is new and undamaged,
that the strip is within expiry,
that the correct code chip is installed, and
that the battery has adequate power.

Do not force the strip into the strip port.

Why Does My On Call Plus Show E3?

E-3 commonly occurs when blood or control solution is applied before the meter displays the sample-ready indication.

Discard the affected strip, insert a new strip and wait for the correct blood-drop / strip symbol before applying the new sample.

Why Does My On Call Plus Show E5?

E-5 indicates that the strip received insufficient sample.

Repeat the test with a new strip and make sure an adequate blood drop is applied to the sample tip so the check window fills as instructed.

Can On Call Plus Test from the Palm or Forearm?

On Call Plus documentation includes blood sampling from the fingertip, palm at the base of the thumb and forearm. Palm and forearm testing uses a different sampling technique and the applicable clear lancing-device cap.

Because alternative-site testing may not be appropriate in every clinical situation, follow the instructions supplied with your meter and your healthcare professional's guidance about which sampling site to use.

Using the On Call Plus Memory

On Call Plus can automatically store up to approximately 300 test records with date and time.

It can also calculate approximately:

7-day averages,
14-day averages, and
30-day averages.

These stored results can help users review testing history. They should not, by themselves, be used to make unsupervised medication or treatment changes.

When Should You Repeat an On Call Plus Test?

A repeat test may be appropriate when:

the meter displays an error and the instructions direct you to retest,
the strip was inserted incorrectly,
blood was applied too early,
the sample was insufficient,
the strip was damaged or contaminated, or
the result is unexpected and you suspect a testing-procedure problem.

Use a new compatible strip whenever the manufacturer procedure requires a new strip.

On Call Plus Test Strip Pack Options

Once you know how to use the system correctly, you can select a strip quantity appropriate for your testing needs.

For quantity selection:

On Call Plus Test Strips 50 vs 200 Pack Guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start an On Call Plus glucose test?

Confirm the correct code chip is installed, insert a fresh compatible On Call Plus Test Strip into the strip port and wait until the meter displays the sample-ready blood-drop indication before applying blood.

Which way does an On Call Plus strip go into the meter?

Insert the contact-bar end first, facing upward, according to the orientation shown in the On Call Plus user instructions.

Where do I put blood on an On Call Plus strip?

Touch the blood drop to the sample tip at the end of the strip. Do not place the sample on top of the strip.

How much blood does On Call Plus need?

The documented minimum sample size is approximately 1 µL.

How long does On Call Plus take to show a result?

The meter typically provides a glucose result in approximately 10 seconds after an adequate sample is accepted.

Why does my On Call Plus show E3?

E-3 commonly indicates that blood was applied before the meter was ready. Use a new strip and wait for the blood-drop / strip-ready symbol before applying the sample.

Why does my On Call Plus show E5?

E-5 indicates insufficient sample. Repeat the test using a new strip and an adequate blood drop.

Do I need to change the code chip when opening a new box of strips?

The On Call Plus instructions state that when changing to a new box of test strips, the code chip packed with the new box should be inserted according to the coding procedure.

Can I reuse an On Call Plus test strip?

No. On Call Plus blood glucose test strips are single-use diagnostic consumables and should not be reused.

Can I use On Call Extra strips in the On Call Plus meter?

No. Use compatible On Call Plus Test Strips with the On Call Plus meter.

Can I use the forearm instead of my fingertip?

The On Call Plus instructions include fingertip, palm and forearm sampling, but alternative-site sampling requires the appropriate technique and may not be suitable in every situation. Follow the meter instructions and professional medical guidance.

What should I do if the meter displays HI or LO?

HI or LO indicates a glucose result outside the meter's approximately 20–600 mg/dL measurement range. Follow the meter instructions for repeat testing and seek appropriate medical assistance if an extreme result is confirmed or you have concerning symptoms.

Related On Call Plus Guides

Shop On Call Plus Glucometers & Test Strips

Microsidd offers On Call Plus meters, starter kits and compatible test-strip pack sizes for customers across India.

View the full range: Shop On Call Plus Glucometers & Test Strips →

For the entire brand family: Shop On Call Plus, Extra & GK Dual →

Medical information notice: This article provides general instructions for understanding the operation of the On Call Plus blood glucose monitoring system. It does not replace the user manual supplied with your exact meter and test strips, and it does not diagnose diabetes or interpret whether an individual glucose result is clinically safe.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for testing, strip handling, coding and control checks. Your healthcare professional should determine your glucose targets, testing frequency and treatment plan.

If a result is unexpectedly high or low, repeat the test according to the manufacturer's instructions where appropriate. Repeated HI or LO results, severe symptoms, confusion, loss of consciousness or inability to self-treat require prompt medical assessment. Do not delay necessary medical care while troubleshooting the meter.

How to Use On Call Plus Glucometer & Test Strips: Step-by-Step Guide