METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LIGHTED TEST STRIP

A method of testing body fluids, comprising loading a test strip in a meter with a sampling end of the test strip extending outside the meter, wherein the sampling end has a sample chamber in which the body fluid is collected; and illuminating the sampling end of the test strip that extends outside the meter by transmitting light from a light source inside the meter internally through the test strip to the sampling end of the test strip, wherein at least a portion of the test strip is made of a light transmissive material to transmit light from the light source to the sampling end; and analyzing the sample within the sample chamber; characterized in that the test strip is retained in the meter by inserting the light source into a light source opening in the test strip, and wherein the test strip includes a lancet to form an integrated disposable; aiming the lancet by shining the light from the sampling end of the test strip onto an incision site; and cutting an incision at the incision site by firing the lancet while the light source holds the test strip in place.