Abstract: An analytical test strip for the determination of an analyte (e.g., glucose) in a liquid sample (such as whole blood) includes a matrix, with the matrix having a sample detection zone and a control zone(s). The sample detection zone includes a first reagent composition that reacts with analyte in the liquid sample to create a sample response and is configured to receive a first portion of the liquid sample. The control zone(s) includes a second reagent composition and is configured to receive another portion(s) of the liquid sample. In addition, the second reagent composition creates a predetermined control response when exposed to the second portion of the liquid sample. The predetermined control response, either alone or in combination with the sample response, can be employed to verify acceptable functioning of the analytical test strip and/or to provide a calibration factor for the analytical test strip.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for determining a suitable site for sampling physiological fluid. In the subject methods, a potentially suitable physiological sampling site is selected, the fluid flow of the site is characterized and the site is then determined to be suitable based on the whether the site has high or low flow. Suitability may also be determined based on the type of sample obtainable from the site, where the order of the above-described steps may be altered. The subject devices include at least one site flow characterization element for determining the flow characteristics of a potential physiological sampling site and/or at least one sample type characterization element for determining whether the vasculature is arterial, venous or neither, i.e., an interstitial fluid sampling site. The subject methods and devices are particularly suited for use in the detection of physiological sampling sites in the fingers, arms, legs, earlobes, heels, feet, nose and toes.

Abstract: Test strips for determining the concentration of at least one analyte, e.g., glucose, in a physiological sample and methods for their manufacture and use and are provided. The subject test strips include a transfer element for facilitating the transfer of sample to a reaction area of the test strip. In certain embodiments, the transfer element, typically porous, has a first area and a second area, and in certain embodiments the two areas have different thicknesses. In other embodiments, the transfer element is non-porous and is configured to transfer sample by wicking it between the transfer element and the reaction area of the test strip. In the subject methods, the transport element facilitates transfers of a sample to a reaction area of the test strip. The subject test strips and methods find use in a variety of different applications, particularly in the determination of glucose concentrations.