Module 7: Monitoring – What's it all about?

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is the key to self-management and the most important aspect of SMBG is knowing what to do with the results. Before it was possible to monitor one's own blood glucose levels people relied on periodic lab tests or urine testing. This meant they were always chasing their blood glucose and treating it retrospectively. Now people can check at any time to see if their blood glucose is on the way up or down and how certain activities affect their blood glucose.

Objectives

You have completed this module when you are able to:

  1. Explain A1C;
  2. List the benefits of SMBG;
  3. State the CDA recommendations for frequency of blood glucose checking;
  4. Determine the best times to check blood glucose for people on different management regimens;
  5. Explain pattern management;
  6. Explain the importance of keeping a logbook;
  7. Review a logbook and interpret blood glucose results;
  8. Explain how to use pattern management to achieve target blood glucose values;
  9. Explain the difference between and the benefits of keeping a logbook and downloading a meter;
  10. Describe two methods for insulin dose adjustment;
  11. Discuss the adjustment of medication or insulin for special events, such as travel, physical activity, surgery, religious or cultural events;
  12. Explain the features of various meters; and
  13. Describe the limitations of urine testing for glucose.

To enhance your learning, you may also wish to refer to the "Targets and monitoring for glycemic control" section of the Canadian Pharmacists Journal's supplement on Diabetes. (CPJ 2009;142[SUPPL 1])