Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Medication Adjustments: Perspectives from Diabetes Educators

Authors: Asma F. Alshehri, Johara O. Alhomoud, Alya H. Aljahni, Taleb Ali Alessa, Hana A. Albyyaai

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Abstract
Background: Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology has become an essential tool in managing diabetes, allowing patients and healthcare providers to monitor blood glucose levels in real time. This method not only helps in controlling glucose levels but also significantly aids in making medication adjustments. As CGM is rapidly being adopted in clinical practice, it is important to explore the views of diabetes educators on its effects on treatment strategies.
Objective: This quantitative study aims to explore how Continuous Glucose Monitoring affects medication adjustments in diabetes management, particularly from the perspectives of diabetes educators. It seeks to measure the relationships between CGM usage, the frequency of medication adjustments, and the perceived effectiveness in achieving glycemic control.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out among diabetes educators in various healthcare settings using a structured questionnaire. The survey gathered information on participants' experiences with CGM, including its impact on medication adjustments and the perceived advantages and challenges of its use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics were employed to assess correlations between CGM usage and the frequency of medication adjustments.
Results: A total of 120 diabetes educators participated in the survey, with 85% stating that Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) had a significant impact on their decisions regarding medication adjustments. The analysis showed a positive correlation (r = 0.65, p < 0.01) between how often CGM was used and the number of medication adjustments made each month. Furthermore, 70% of the participants observed improvements in patient adherence to diabetes management plans due to CGM, while 60% reported facing challenges with data interpretation and information overload.
Conclusions: Continuous Glucose Monitoring has a positive effect on medication adjustments in diabetes management, as reported by diabetes educators. The results suggest that greater use of CGM leads to more frequent and informed medication adjustments, which enhances patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. However, the challenges related to data interpretation underscore the necessity for additional training and support for both educators and patients. Future research should examine the long-term effects of CGM on glycemic control and investigate ways to address the identified challenges.

Keywords: Continuous Glucose Monitoring, diabetes educators, medication adjustments, diabetes management, quantitative research.

Paper Id: 231337

Published On: 2015-01-10

Published In: Volume 3, Issue 1, January-February 2015

Cite This: Impact of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Medication Adjustments: Perspectives from Diabetes Educators - Asma F. Alshehri, Johara O. Alhomoud, Alya H. Aljahni, Taleb Ali Alessa, Hana A. Albyyaai - IJIRMPS Volume 3, Issue 1, January-February 2015.

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