Knowledge and Practice of Glucose Self-Monitoring Devices among Patients with Diabetes

Abstract

Background: With blood glucose self-monitoring, patients may assess how well their glucose level is controlled, and change their treatment plan as advised by their physicians. The development and increasing availability of different devices that are readily accessible play a significant role in glycemic control and prevention of complications through early recognition with proper practice. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study includes patients with diabetes attending Khartoum North Diabetes and Endocrinology Hospital and was carried out in April–July 2021 using convenient sampling via questionnaires obtained and filled by data collectors through interviews. Data analysis was done using SPSS software. Results: Out of 125 patients, 82 had prior basic knowledge about glucose self-monitoring devices. Twenty-four patients were using it regularly, and only seven were using it daily. Fifty-one patients had never used any device before. Fifty-five patients owned a device, and the rest borrowed or used devices available at healthcare centers or clinics, pharmacies, relatives’ or neighbors’ devices. Factors hindering the use of devices included financial difficulties and lack of education. Most frequent users had a stable occupation. Just below half of the patients using devices had good practice techniques with significant association with higher level of education. The rest had poor practice technique that was associated with lower level of education. Conclusion: Utilization of glucose self-monitoring devices is prevalent among patients with diabetes. However, many challenges require attention to facilitate ongoing self-use with proper practice in line with education and access.