Self monitoring of blood glucose
Patients who are self monitoring their blood glucose should be taught to take blood samples, usually from the fingertips and to rotate the sites. The ear lobes, arms, and thighs can be used, but the arms and thighs may not be accurate in cases of hypoglycaemia. Patients should also be reminded to use control solutions regularly to ensure that the meter is providing an accurate reading. These can be ordered free of charge from meter manufacturers. Point out also that incorrect storage and use of blood glucose strips can lead to inaccurate readings. Any of the following people who are self monitoring their blood glucose should be referred to the person managing their diabetes (e.g. GP, practice nurse, diabetes nurse, consultant):
- Erratic glycaemic profile
- Evidence of recurrent hypoglycaemia
- Illness resulting in poor control
- Glycaemic range above identified target
- Anyone about whom you have concerns.
Reflection exercise
Make a list of all the information that will need to be provided to a person prescribed insulin with respect to ensuring:
€¢ The correct dose is administered
€¢ They know how to monitor their blood glucose
€¢ They know how to dispose of used sharps
€¢ The steps to take when suffering from intercurrent illness (e.g. flu, nausea and vomiting).
Record your learning
Once you have read this article, use the following CPD questions to help you reflect on what you have learned and how it might affect your everyday work. Remember to record your learning on the GPhC website if you are registered (www.uptodate.org.uk). Otherwise, it is good practice to record it in your ongoing learning and development folder.
€¢ What did I learn that was new? (Evaluate)
€¢ How have I put this into practice? (Provide examples of how learning has been applied.) (Evaluate)
€¢ Do I need to learn anything else in this area? (Reflect)