Monitoring Techniques Flashcards

Which factor most commonly causes falsely LOW blood glucose readings on a home glucometer?

Answer: Hematocrit below 25% (anemia)

Low hematocrit (anemia) causes falsely low glucometer readings because less glucose-containing plasma is sampled relative to the total blood volume.

A patient's CGM sensor glucose reads 180 mg/dL but a fingerstick capillary glucose reads 145 mg/dL. Which value should guide an insulin dosing decision?

Answer: The fingerstick value, as capillary blood is the reference standard

When CGM and fingerstick values disagree, the capillary fingerstick is the reference standard and should guide treatment decisions.

What is the primary clinical advantage of flash glucose monitoring (FreeStyle Libre) compared to traditional SMBG?

Answer: It provides trend arrows and eliminates the need for routine fingersticks

Flash glucose monitoring provides trend arrows and glucose history with a scan, reducing the need for routine fingersticks while showing glucose direction.

A patient checks fasting glucose every morning but never checks postprandial levels. What important information is she missing about her glycemic control?

Answer: Postprandial glucose excursions that significantly contribute to HbA1c

Postprandial glucose spikes contribute significantly to overall HbA1c and are missed if only fasting readings are obtained.

Which urine ketone result warrants immediate medical evaluation in a person with type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Moderate to large ketones regardless of blood glucose

Moderate to large urine ketones indicate significant ketone production and risk for diabetic ketoacidosis requiring prompt medical assessment.

What does a CGM 'time in range' (TIR) goal of >70% specifically refer to?

Answer: Time with glucose between 70–180 mg/dL

International consensus defines TIR as the percentage of time glucose readings fall between 70–180 mg/dL, with >70% as the standard target.

When should a patient with type 1 diabetes check blood glucose before driving?

Answer: Always, and should not drive if glucose is below 90 mg/dL

Patients with type 1 diabetes should check glucose before driving and avoid driving if glucose is below 90 mg/dL to prevent hypoglycemia-related accidents.