Flash Glucose Monitoring | Resident & Family Newsletter | Dec 2020

December 2020 | Be Well — Be Safe | View PDF

Regular blood sugar testing is essential for better diabetes management, especially if you take insulin. Regular testing may be a challenge, as busy schedules (especially during the holidays) could make you forget to check your sugar, or you might not like having to prick yourself multiple times a day! If you are struggling with regular blood sugar testing, Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM) may be an option for you.

WHAT IS FLASH GLUCOSE MONITORING (FGM)?

FGM is a method of glucose testing that measures, displays, and continuously stores glucose readings that are recorded automatically. This is done without the need for a finger prick to collect a blood sample.

HOW DOES FGM HELP BLOOD SUGAR CONTROL?

• Prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) by alerting you when your blood sugar is going down.
• Provides early indication of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) over the course of the day and prompt adjustments to medications, activity, and food intake to help achieve blood sugar targets.
• Eliminates painful finger pricking and can provide an 8-hour history of glucose levels making it easier to remain in your recommended blood sugar range.

HOW DOES THE FGM SYSTEM WORK?

1. Apply
   A sensor is applied to the back of the arm using an applicator. The sensor stays in place for 14 days eliminating the need for a finger prick.
2. Scan
   This can be done using the reader supplied or your smartphone.
3. Get results
   View your first glucose reading in just one hour.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT FGM?

• FGM system may give inaccurate results if the user is dehydrated
• Sensor is waterproof (i.e. can be worn while bathing, swimming or exercising)
• Use a traditional finger prick test to confirm hypoglycemia or if your symptoms are not matching the FGM reading

Learn more about the FGM System

References:

1. Diabetes Canada – Flash Glucose Monitoring https://www.diabetes.ca/DiabetesCanadaWebsite/media/Managing-My-Diabetes/Tools%20and%20Resources/Flash_Glucose_Monitoring.pdf (accessed Nov 17, 2020)
2. Freestyle – Helpful Resources for You and Your Patient https://www.freestyle.abbott/ca/en/products/libre/hcp-resources.html (accessed Nov 17, 2020)