Things to pay attention to when monitoring blood sugar

Indeed, accurate blood glucose monitoring is a cornerstone of effective diabetes management. Here's a concise summary of key points to consider when monitoring blood sugar:

1. Blood Sugar Units: Ensure familiarity with both mg/dL and mmol/L units and know how to convert between them for clarity and consistency.

2. Significance of Monitoring: Regular monitoring helps track glucose fluctuations, guides lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, sleep), and informs appropriate medication dosage and timing. It reflects the efficacy of current treatment and aids in making personalized adjustments.

3. Monitoring Time Points:

   • 5-point testing includes fasting, pre-meal, and post-meal (2 hours) readings, plus bedtime measurement.
   • More comprehensive approaches like 8-point testing provide a fuller picture throughout the day and night.
   • Hypoglycemia checks should be conducted whenever symptoms arise.

4. Comparison with Laboratory Tests: Understand that home glucose meters may yield slightly different results compared to lab tests due to calibration and method differences. A discrepancy within 20% is generally acceptable.

5. Blood Glucose Meter Operation:

   • Follow proper hygiene practices, such as hand washing and site disinfection.
   • Ensure correct usage of the device and test strips, matching codes if necessary.
   • Collect adequate blood samples, discarding the first drop to avoid tissue fluid interference.
   • Allow the test to run its course without shaking the meter.
   • Record and interpret results accurately.

6. Human Factors Influencing Accuracy:

   • Inaccurate readings can occur due to improper technique, expired test strips, improperly stored test strips, inaccurate calibration, or hematocrit effects.
   • Eating or drinking shortly before testing, insufficient fasting, and stress can also impact results.

To ensure reliable blood glucose monitoring, patients should:

• Always follow manufacturer instructions.
• Calibrate their meters regularly according to guidelines.
• Keep records of their readings for review with healthcare professionals.
• Be mindful of interferences that might affect readings, such as medications, illness, or physical activity immediately prior to testing.
• Seek professional advice when there are significant discrepancies or if the monitoring routine isn't helping to maintain stable glucose levels.