Once target control is achieved and the results of self-monitoring become quite predictable, there is little gained in most individuals from repeatedly confirming this state. There are many exceptions, such as acute illness, when new medications are added, when weight fluctuates significantly, when A1c targets drift off course and in individuals who need monitoring to maintain targets. Self-monitoring is beneficial as long as one is learning and adjusting therapy based on the result of the monitoring.
Conditions: NIDDM, Type II DM (Type II Diabetics)
Diagnostic Tests: Self-Monitor Blood Sugar, Self-Monitor Blood Glucose (SMBG)
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Sources
- Berard LD, Blumer I, Houlden R et al. Canadian Diabetes Association 2013 Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Diabetes in Canada: Monitoring Glycemic Control. Can. J. Diabetes. 2013;37(suppl 1):S35-39. (PubMed)
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- Farmer A, Wade A, Goyder E, et al. Impact of self monitoring of blood glucose in the management of patients with non-insulin treated diabetes: open parallel group randomised trial. BMJ. Jul 21 2007;335(7611):132. (PubMed)
- O'Kane MJ, Bunting B, Copeland M, Coates VE. Efficacy of self monitoring of blood glucose in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (ESMON study): randomised controlled trial. BMJ. May 24 2008;336(7654):1174-1177. (PubMed)