The Role of Remote Glucose Management Using Real-time Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems in ICU-hospitalized Patients with COVID-19.

Abstract

The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has induced many challenges in the clinical environment worldwide. In a bid to reduce the exposure of healthcare providers to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and the utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE), while maintaining optimal patient care, in April 2020, the US Food and Drug Administration issued a new policy, allowing the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting. This article aimed to explore the role of real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems in patients in the ICU with COVID-19. The hybrid protocols integrating real-time CGM and point of care seem to be a feasible and safe alternative for the glycaemic management of critically ill patients with COVID-1 9, including the reduction of healthcare providers' exposure and the preservation of PPE, whilst achieving and maintaining optimal glycaemic control.