Maybe I misunderstood, but are you using the alcohol wipes in between samples? If so, that’s likely the issue.
The alcohol is intended to disinfect the skin prior to any finger pricks. apply the wipe, let it dry, use the lancet, wipe away the first drop and then test the second drop. If the puncture stays open, you can continue sampling without having to re-disinfect, etc.
I never use gloves unless I’m testing someone else. The strips aren’t that sensitive unless another liquid is present (like sweat, alcohol, etc).
P.S. Scott J. is just finishing up an article about testing protocol, so that should be on the UA site shortly.
