COMPREHENSIVE MONITORING PARAMETERS IN DIABETES MELLITUS
Effective diabetes management requires regular monitoring to prevent
complications and maintain optimal health. Below are the key parameters
categorized
BLOOD GLUCOSE MONITORING
1. Self-Monitoring (SMBG): Fingerstick tests to check fasting blood
glucose (3.9-5.6mmo/L), pre/post-meal (<10mmol/L)
2. HbA1c: Measured every 3-6 months to assess average blood glucose
over 3 months; target <7% for most adults.
3. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Provides real-time trends and
alerts for highs/lows; useful for adjusting therapy.
COMPLICATION SCREENING
1. Retinopathy: Annual dilated eye exams to detect early retinal damage.
2. Nephropathy: Yearly urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and
serum creatinine/eGFR for kidney function.
3. Neuropathy: Annual foot exams to check sensation, pulses, and ulcers;
10-g monofilament testing for sensation loss.
4. Cardiovascular: Regular blood pressure checks (target <130/80
mmHg), lipid profile (LDL<1.8mmol/L if diabetic and <1.4mmol/L if
diabetic and hypertensive), and ECG if symptomatic.
ACUTE EVENT MANAGEMENT
Hypoglycemia: Track frequency of low glucose (<3.8mmol/L); educate on
symptoms (shaking, confusion) and treatment (soft drinks e.g. coke, fanta).
Hyperglycemia: Monitor for symptoms (thirst, fatigue) and ketones (via
urine/blood if glucose >13.1mmol/L) to prevent DKA (critical in type 1).
LIFESTYLE & ANTHROPOMETRICS
Weight/BMI: Track quarterly; aim for gradual weight loss in
overweight/obese type patients.
1. Diet: Carbohydrate counting and balanced nutrition (fiber, low
glycemic index).
2. Exercise: Encourage 150 mins/week of moderate activity; monitor
glucose changes during/after exercise.
MEDICATION & THERAPY
1. Adherence: Review insulin/oral medication use regularly.
2. Insulin Injection Sites: Inspect for lipodystrophy or infection.
3. Technology: Assess CGM/pump usage and adjust settings as needed.
MENTAL HEALTH
Screen for depression/anxiety using tools like PHQ-9; refer to
counseling/support groups if needed.
ADDITIONAL TESTS
1. Thyroid Function: Annual TSH for type 1 patients (higher autoimmune
risk).
2. Liver Function: Monitor if on medications like metformin or statins.
3. Vaccinations: Ensure flu, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccines are
up-to-date.
PATIENT EDUCATION
Empower self-management through structured programs covering diet,
medication, and glucose monitoring.
Individualized Care
Tailor targets (e.g., relaxed HbA1c goals in elderly/high hypoglycemia risk)
and adjust based on comorbidities.
By systematically addressing these parameters, healthcare providers can
optimize outcomes and reduce diabetes-related complications.